It has been announced today, Monday 27 March, that the use and possession of Nitrous Oxide as a recreational drug will become illegal as part of the Government's Anti-Social Behaviour Plan.
Nitrous Oxide comes in small silver canisters and is inhaled. It is sometimes used in hospitals as pain relief, where it is administered safely, or in catering for both frothing whipped cream and coffee in home appliances.
In Stockton there is evidence that it is being used by young people in public spaces as a recreational high. It is thought the drug is easily obtained over social media, online retailers like Amazon and catering suppliers.
When the use of nitrous oxide is not monitored, the risks associated with taking the drug are very real. Lack of oxygen, spasms and other unexpected side effects can lead to paralysation and death.
Having served on the Home Affairs Select Committee Matt Vickers has been campaigning for stricter measures surrounding Nitrous Oxide since his election, raising it in the House of commons and pushing ministers for action. He raised it after hearing from constituents who were concerned its use was encouraging large gatherings of young people in Stockton’s highstreets, parks and other public green spaces.
After hearing the announcement today, Matt Vickers MP said:
“I am relieved to hear Nitrous Oxide will no longer be legal.
“The small silver canisters blight our green spaces and the large groups of people participating can be intimidating.
“Too often families with children walking across the six fields are forced to encounter piles of them and our local volunteers who take such pride in making our public spaces look presentable have increased their regular litter picks.
“We’re also tackling the lack of education surrounding Nitrous Oxide for recreational use, as many users will be unaware of the dangers they are putting themselves in.
“Growing up, we were educated about the risks of solvent abuse, the equivalent craze of the time. As the second most used drug by our young people, it is time we stepped up to protect them from the potential harm.”
When the laws come into effect the possession of Nitrous Oxide for inappropriate use will become an offence. The Conservative Government will also put measures into place at the retailers end to reduce its misuse and give greater powers to the police to take immediate action against anyone found to be in breach of the law.
There will also be greater support put into place for anyone participating in drug misuse, including mental health support and accommodation.
