A NORTH West Euro-MP has called for the legalisation of all drugs, including heroin and cocaine, in an announcement branded irresponsible'.

Liberal Democrat Chris Davies says through registered outlets, users could get labelled, controlled drugs - arguing that deaths among present addicts are often caused by supply of an unknown strength, which can be contaminated with products like drain cleaner.

He said: "I do not want to encourage the use of any drug but prohibition has clearly failed.

"More lives will be saved and crime will be reduced by adopting an approach based on legislation, licensing, taxing and informing."

He said the multi-million pound drugs trade currently provides money to fund terrorists, such as the IRA, and fosters crime.

On the controversial drug Ecstasy, Mr Davies said: "One million people a month who go clubbing take Ecstasy at the moment.

"Despite the war on drugs these figures do not change, so maybe there are other answers."

He said although the move may mean some people who reject drugs will be encouraged to try them, figures show that although this may lead to a minor increase in use it will also reduce the significant amount of deaths.

He said: "Adults should have the right to choose for themselves what they want to do with their own bodies, even if we think the decisions they make are plain stupid. It should be the Government's job to ensure that people are given the information on which to base these choices."

He is calling for a Royal Commission to consider lifting prohibition while avoiding encouragement of drug use.

Lil Semoff, chief executive of the Advice, Rehabilitation, Counselling and Health Initiative, which treats drug addicts, said Mr Davies' ideas should be looked at, and could reduce criminality and the attraction of youngsters to the drugs culture.

She said although the organisation would never condone drug use, controlled legalisation could make drugs like heroin far safer.

But Conservative MEP David Sumberg said: "It is not a responsible way of looking at what is a very serious health and social problem.

"I am surprised that Chris would take that course.

"The dangers of drugs are so great both to users' health and others', because they promote crime, violence and anti-social behaviour."

He believes the answer lies in tough prison sentences and education. Brian Simpson, Labour MEP, said: "We have got to get people out of the drug culture and so I don't think this is a way forward.

"I can understand some drugs such as marijuana being legalised for medical reasons, but as for heroin and cocaine, that is frankly putting our kids at great risk so I would oppose it."

He advocates tough sentences for dealers and increased education.