Conservatives get tough on drug offences

VANCOUVER — The Conservative government continued its law-and-order blitz Friday by reintroducing tougher penalties for drug offences. The changes came a day after Ottawa announced Criminal Code amendments aimed at gang violence. But a veteran defence lawyer gave the government's lock 'em up strategy a failing grade, saying it doesn't get at the roots of gangsterism — alienated young people and widespread demand for illegal drugs.