South Yorkshire Police welcome ban on 'laughing gas'
A new ban on nitrous oxide has been introduced
South Yorkshire Police are welcoming a ban on laughing gas, as new laws come into force restricting the use of nitrous oxide.
The ban, promised as part of the Government's anti-social behaviour action plan, makes nitrous oxide a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
This means possession of nitrous oxide, where a person intends to wrongfully inhale it for a psychoactive effect, is now an offence.
Consequences could include an unlimited fine, community sentences or, for repeat serious offenders, a prison term.
But it will still be possible to use the gas for legitimate reasons, such as catering, pain relief during labour or in model rockets.
Licences will not be required to carry nitrous oxide, but users will need to demonstrate they are lawfully in possession of the gas and not intending to wrongfully inhale it.
Detective Chief Inspector Mark Oughton, South Yorkshire Police’s force lead for drugs, urged people to familiarise themselves with the new law: “As a force, we welcome the change in the law and the ban of nitrous oxide, which means that it will now be a criminal offence to possess nitrous oxide, without legitimate reason.
“Not only do the canisters litter the streets and public spaces but their use is linked to anti-social behaviour. We also know that unfortunately the use of nitrous oxide, which is most common amongst young people, puts people’s health at risk.
“We are encouraging people to familiarise themselves with the changes in the law and to really think about the possible consequences of possessing, selling or inhaling this substance. If you see any suspicious activity where you think nitrous oxide is being consumed, please report it to us via or our online portal.”