UK’s drug advisory panel rejects calls for nitrous oxide ban

The ACMD has ruled that nitrous oxide should not be subjected to control under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Photograph: Yui Mok/PA

The UK’s drug advisory panel has rejected calls to ban the sale and possession of nitrous oxide for recreational use, despite the Home Office’s eagerness to do so, a new report has revealed.

While supplying nitrous oxide for psychoactive purposes is already banned, laughing gas or “nos” remains hugely popular among young people. Its growing use has thrown concerns about possible associated health and social problems into the spotlight.