Laughing gas possession to be illegal in three weeks

Laughing gas possession to be illegal in three weeks

Laughing gas will be made illegal in three weeks and those who repeatedly misuse the drug will face up to two years in prison. 

Those caught dealing nitrous oxide will face up to 14 years behind bars, the Home Office said. 

The ban will come into force on November 8 and will make laughing gas a controlled Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. 

Laughing gas is a commonly used recreational drug among young people. 

MPs voted overwhelmingly to categorise it as a class C drug, by 404 votes to 36, last month. 

Critics have previously warned against a ban saying it could stop users seeking medical help.