The substance, which causes feelings of euphoria, relaxation and detachment from reality, is increasingly popular, especially among young people, but authorities say it promotes disturbing behavior and poses health risks.
British Police Minister Chris Philp. Photo: REUTERS
“For too long the use of this drug in public spaces has contributed to anti-social behaviour which is a blight on our communities. We will not accept it,” said Police Minister Chris Philp in a statement.
Under the new ban, those who repeatedly abuse laughing gas could face fines or up to two years in prison, with the maximum prison sentence for drug trafficking doubling to 14 years.
According to figures from the UK Department of Health , nitrous oxide is the third most commonly used drug by 16 to 24-year-olds and heavy use can lead to anaemia and in more serious cases nerve damage or paralysis.
In September, Home Secretary Suella Braverman said people were "fed up" with images of people taking drugs in public spaces, with discarded gas canisters littering the streets of Britain.
The ban exempts legitimate uses including healthcare, dentistry and other industries. The government said no licence would be required, but users would need to prove they were “lawfully in possession” of the drug and did not intend to inhale it.
Mai Anh (according to Reuters)
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