How to tackle Britain’s laughing gas habit
sir – The British Compressed Gases Association (BCGA) is calling on the Government to implement a ban on consumer retail sales of nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”. While legitimate uses – such as in catering, medicine and dentistry – would not be affected, such a move would impede the sale of nitrous oxide for inhalation.
The recreational use of nitrous oxide has always been dangerous, and has caused many deaths. According to the Office for National Statistics, it is the second most commonly used substance among 16- to 24-year-olds in England, with half a million having used it in 2019. In 12 per cent of substance-related deaths, it is mentioned on the death certificate. The lockdown saw a rise in illegal raves and, in turn, an increase in silver, bullet-like objects scattered across roads and parks.
The BCGA worked with the Government on the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, which outlawed the knowing or reckless supply of nitrous oxide for inhalation. While this reduced the open sale of the gas from large cylinders, the supply of 8g mini canisters remains a huge problem. These are sold for legitimate use in synthetic cream dispensers, but it’s clear that most are inhaled.
MPS, local authorities, substance abuse organisations and medical bodies have also been calling for action against the misuse of nitrous oxide. We urge people who feel strongly about this issue to write to their MP in support of a retail ban.
Ellen Daniels
Chief Executive, BCGA Derby