The Government's new medicinal cannabis scheme will prove too expensive for most people, according to former Prime Minister Helen Clark.



She says the scheme is far too narrow - and the way forward is full legalisation.

She's not alone.

"Yes there will be product available, and doctors will be able to prescribe them," NZ Drug Foundation executive director Ross Bell said. "But the barrier of cost will remain."

And Ministry of Health documentation acknowledges cost is a significant barrier.