National Union MK Dr. Aryeh Eldad, a medical doctor, submitted a bill to the Knesset Monday to allow the production of marijuana plants for medical purposes.

The bill would facilitate government-regulated growing of marijuana plants for medical purposes such as relieving discomfort in cancer victims. The regulations would be established by the Justice and Health Ministries.

Eldad said he realizes that submitting such a bill is not a popular move, but that medical research has established that marijuana improves the condition of patients suffering from serious illnesses and must be passed for their sake.