The possession and sale of ‘laughing gas’ is now illegal. ‘Repeat serious’ users can now face up to two years in prison and dealers could receive up to fourteen years in jail.

The ban was earlier promised as part of the government’s ‘Anti-Social Behaviour Action Plan’ and makes nitrous oxide a Class C drug controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Starting today, the possession of nitrous oxide, where a person intends to ‘wrongfully’ inhale it for a psychoactive effect, is now an offence. The consequences of doing so may include an unlimited fine, a visible community punishment, a caution (which would appear on their criminal record) and for ‘repeat serious offenders’, a prison sentence.

Reports were published earlier this year linking nitrous oxide to anti-social behaviour including ‘intimidating gatherings on high streets and in children’s parks’, often resulting in empty canisters being left and scattered across public spaces.

This summer it was reported that 13 tonnes of canisters of nitrous oxide were collected after the Notting Hill carnival.

Regular and heavy abuse of the drug poses severe health risks in users including anaemia and in more severe cases, nerve damage or paralysis.

It has also been identified as having potentially fatal consequences.

Crime and Policing Minister Chris Philp said:

“Today we are sending a clear signal to people, especially young people, that not only is abuse of nitrous oxide dangerous to their health, but it is also illegal and those caught possessing it will face consequences.”

“For too long the use of this drug in public spaces has contributed to anti-social behaviour which is a blight on communities. We will not accept it. This law gives the police the powers they need to take a zero-tolerance approach to this crime.”