Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Misuse of Nitrous Oxide

21 July 2020 · 4 other contributors

Opened by Rosie Duffield Ind Canterbury

Crime & Law EnforcementNHSEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rosie Duffield raised concerns about misuse of nitrous oxide in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Rosie Duffield highlighted the growing misuse of nitrous oxide among young people and its health risks, including long-term nerve damage.
  • The minister noted that under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, supplying nitrous oxide for psychoactive use is illegal, with penalties including imprisonment or fines.
  • Government guidance and enforcement powers are provided to retailers and local authorities to address nitrous oxide misuse issues.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Rosie Duffield Ind Canterbury

In her speech, Rosie Duffield highlighted the growing issue of nitrous oxide misuse among young people and its impact on public health and safety. She pointed out that the canisters used for nitrous oxide are easily accessible without age restrictions or ID checks. The problem has worsened during lockdown due to shortages of other recreational drugs and increased prices, leading more users to turn to nitrous oxide. Duffield discussed the significant health risks associated with its use, including long-term nerve damage and environmental impacts as a powerful greenhouse gas. She called for tighter regulations on sales, age restrictions, and educational campaigns about the dangers. The speech also touched on the littering and safety concerns caused by discarded canisters.

Other contributors (4)
  • Tulip Siddiq Lab Camden

    Commended Rosie Duffield for her powerful campaign on nitrous oxide misuse, noting that councils face significant costs in removing the litter.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Acknowledged the need to educate young people about the dangers of using nitrous oxide outside medical settings.

  • Steven Baker Con Wycombe

    Highlighted safety concerns related to discarded canisters on roads and their potential to cause accidents.

  • Alison Thewliss SNP Glasgow Central

    Noted the increasing problem of nitrous oxide canister litter in her constituency, affecting local communities.

Government Response

Kevin Foster

The Minister acknowledged the concerns raised about the misuse of nitrous oxide and its impact on public health and safety. He mentioned that under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, it is illegal to supply nitrous oxide for psychoactive use, with penalties including imprisonment or fines. The Government has provided guidance for retailers and enforcement powers for local councils and police forces to address misuse issues. They are also looking at tightening online regulations through the Online Harms White Paper. Additionally, the Minister discussed efforts in education and awareness campaigns such as FRANK and Rise Above to prevent drug use among young people. He emphasised a multifaceted approach involving law enforcement, regulation, education, and community support.

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