Richard Branson: «Farmers should give up cows for cannabis».»

Businessman and billionaire Sir Richard Brandon, who was traveling through New Zealand to speak at a charity dinner, told the Newshub TV channel that New Zealand farmers should grow cannabis rather than expand their dairy operations.

«We’ve conducted a great deal of research on the war on drugs, and it has been a complete failure. What’s very clear to us is that drugs should be decriminalized and that people with drug-related problems should be helped,» explains Sir Richard.

The entrepreneur sees many opportunities related to cannabis in New Zealand, including the possibility of growing it instead of raising cows.

«You should legalize it, grow it, tax it, and regulate it.».

«That would be wonderful because, clearly, the number of dairy cows in New Zealand is damaging the rivers; if you could use some of that land to grow cannabis, it would be just as profitable for them, if not more so.».

Newshub also asked the leading representative of New Zealand farmers, Federated Farmers, what he thought of Sir Richard Branson's idea. The company's president does not seem to be completely opposed to it at first glance.

«Farmers welcome any opportunity to add another string to their bow, and would consider this option if it were legal and profitable… But it won’t happen overnight,» he replied.

During the charity dinner, Branson also shared his views on Donald Trump, describing him as 'embarrassment« .

Sir Richard Branson is no stranger to the topic of international drug policy. In particular, he is a member of the Global Commission on Drug Policy, a group of public figures (Kofi Annan, George Papandreou, Javier Solana, Nick Clegg, etc.) who propose «effective and humane» solutions to reduce the harm caused by drugs to individuals and societies. He often uses his public appearances to share his vision for drug policy.