Crime Solicitors

Lambeth Council has become the first local authority to ban the use of nitrous oxide – laughing gas – as a recreational drug in public places.

BBC News reports that users of the drug caught in a public place face an on-the-spot fine of £1,000.

Nitrous oxide is used as an anaesthetic and in cream and ice cream makers – it produces a light headed effect in users if inhaled and is sold on the street in small canisters and as inhalants from balloons for as little as 50p a shot.

The gas causes blood pressure to fall and may cause brain injury and cardiac arrest. It has been the cause of 17 deaths in recent years, but is now the UK’s fourth most popular recreational drug, with signs of use littering the streets of London and other cities at weekends.

In 2013-2014, a total of 470,000 people in the UK used nitrous oxide, according to Home Office figures.

It is illegal to sell nitrous oxide to those under the age of 18 if there is a risk they will inhale it, but adults can buy the gas legally – it is easily available online in canisters for catering purposes.

Lambeth Councillor Jane Edbrooke said:

“It's not healthy – just because they're called ‘legal highs’ does not mean they're good for your health.”

The ban in Lambeth will be enforced by local council officers and the police.

Duncan Lewis Crime Lawyers

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There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide – including more than 20 offices across London and the southeast – and a criminal defence lawyer can usually reach a client at a police station for interview under caution within 45 minutes.

For expert legal advice on all criminal charges, call Duncan Lewis crime lawyers on 020 7923 4020.

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