He banned laughing gas inhalation and sentenced it to up to 2 years in prison.

Cylinders containing nitrous oxide are being discarded throughout urban and suburban areas of England (Photo: Getty).

"Today, we are sending a clear signal to everyone, especially young people, that the misuse of nitrous oxide is not only dangerous to health but also illegal," said Secretary of State for Police Chris Philp.

Philp argued that "the use of this drug in public has long contributed to antisocial behavior, causing harm to the community."

The trade in bottled nitrous oxide has boomed in recent decades, as teenagers in the UK frequently inhale the gas for recreational purposes. Bottles of laughing gas are found discarded throughout urban and suburban areas of England.

Doctors warn that long-term use of nitrous oxide can cause anemia, nerve damage, and spinal cord injury. It is also believed to be linked to antisocial behavior.

The ban on laughing gas was initially proposed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's government in March. It was part of a crackdown on disorderly conduct and security threats ahead of the general election scheduled for next year.

Philp asserted that police now have the necessary authority to handle the matter "without leniency," and warned that those caught carrying nitrous oxide will face consequences.

The UK has long prohibited the intentional supply of nitrous oxide for non- medical purposes, but canned nitrous oxide is still widely sold online and on the streets.

The UK Home Office said that under the new regulations, possessing this gas for the purpose of illegally using it to induce psychosis is a crime.

Offenders may face unlimited fines, community service, and a written warning on their criminal record. Serious repeat offenders may be imprisoned.

The maximum penalty for the crime of producing, supplying, exporting, or importing nitrous oxide for illegal purposes has doubled, from 7 years to 14 years in prison.

The UK Home Office noted that nitrous oxide has long been used in healthcare, catering, and other industries. Those with legitimate reasons for using it are exempt from the ban.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-gioi/anh-cam-hit-bong-cuoi-phat-tu-toi-2-nam-20231108205758283.htm