Laughing Gas Ban

A BAN on the possession of laughing gas has come into force, following a campaign led by Southend West MP.

Anna Firth MP spearheaded a campaign to end the use of nitrous oxide, known as laughing gas, in a bid to protect users from the harm it can cause.

There has been a reported increase in the use of such substances by young people locally.

This was evidenced last summer, when Southend Police collected 400 nitrous oxide canisters in one day alone.

New measures as part of the Government’s Antisocial Behaviour Action Plan are making nitrous oxide into a Controlled Class C Drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

This means it will be an offence to possess, supply, manufacture, import and export nitrous oxide for illegitimate reasons.

Those found in position of the substance could face a maximum sentence of up to two years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.

Ms firth met with Jo Collins, District Commander for Southend, to discuss the difference the new ban on nitrous oxide will make in tackling anti-social behaviour in Southend.

Chief Inspector Joe Collins said: “it’s fantastic, as up until now we have been working with the limited powers to deal with nitrous oxide on our seafront and in public areas.

“This legislation and our greater powers will enable us to really deal with the problem and tackle the youths that are using it, reducing the antisocial behaviour happening in our communities.”

Picture: Jo Collins and Anna Firth. Pic Anna Firth

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