He banned laughing gas inhalation and sentenced it to up to 2 years in prison.

Laughing gas canisters were found dumped across urban and suburban areas in England (Photo: Getty).

"Today we are sending a clear signal to people, particularly young people, that misuse of nitrous oxide is not only dangerous to health but also illegal," said Minister of State for Policing Chris Philp.

Mr Philp said that "the use of this drug in public places has long contributed to antisocial behavior, causing disaster for the community".

The sale of nitrous oxide in cans has boomed in recent decades, with UK teenagers inhaling the gas recreationally. Cans of laughing gas are found littering urban and suburban areas across the UK.

Doctors warn that long-term use of laughing gas can cause anemia, nerve damage and spinal injuries. It has also been linked to antisocial behavior.

The ban on laughing gas was initially proposed by Chancellor Rishi Sunak's government in March as part of a crackdown on disorderly conduct ahead of next year's general election.

Mr Philp insisted police now had the necessary powers to deal with it "with zero tolerance", and warned that those caught with nitrous oxide would face consequences.

Britain has long banned the deliberate supply of nitrous oxide for non- medical purposes, but canned nitrous oxide is still widely available online and on the streets.

The UK Home Office said under new regulations, it is a crime to possess the gas illegally for use to cause psychoactive effects.

Violators may be fined without limit, sentenced to community service and have a criminal record recorded. Serious repeat offenders may be imprisoned.

The maximum penalty for illegally producing, supplying, exporting and importing laughing gas has been doubled, from seven to 14 years in prison.

The Home Office notes that nitrous oxide has long been used in healthcare, catering and other industries. Those with legitimate reasons for use are exempt from the ban.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-gioi/anh-cam-hit-bong-cuoi-phat-tu-toi-2-nam-20231108205758283.htm