Change to UK laws on laughing gas apply to IoM
Possession of Nitrous Oxide for recreational use becomes a criminal offence in the UK today (8 November) - a move which automatically applies here on the Isle of Man.
The drug - also known as laughing gas - is now categorised as a Class C substance.
Thought to be one of the most commonly used recreational drugs by 16 to 24-year-olds, it's been described as a 'blight' on communities across, with authorities having to clear up 'piles of discarded cannisters'.
Meanwhile, reports say there are fears the move could stop people seeking treatment for issues caused by the drug, such as vitamin deficiency and nerve damage.
Before today, importation, or production, of the gas was already illegal on the Island unless for use in medicine or dentistry.
In the lead-up to today, the Department of Home Affairs told Manx Radio: "As the UK is intending to ban Nitrous Oxide through amending schedules in their own Misuse of Drugs Act, it will automatically apply to the Isle of Man.
"This is because the Isle of Man’s Misuse of Drugs Act 1976 refers to specific schedules within the UK Act, including part III of schedule 2, which will be amended to include [Nitrous Oxide]."
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