Home Secretary Priti Patel seeks advice on whether the unlawful possession of nitrous oxide should be a crime.
But former ACMD chairman Professor David Nutt, who was sacked in 2009 after claiming that ecstasy and LSD were less dangerous than alcohol, called the move a "gimmick".
He added: "This is completely pointless, an utter distraction. This is pretence of doing something about drug problems, but focusing on a drug that has very, very little harm - way less harm than alcohol - and they should be investing their money on people who are dying of drugs like fentanyl and heroin."
Adam Winstock, a consultant psychiatrist and addiction medicine specialist, said: "Asking for evidence is great but the ACMD advice comes framed by the current home secretary's preconceived notion that a problem related to drug use can be successfully addressed by making something illegal. Labour MP Rosie Duffield told a Commons debate in 2020 that recreational use had become "much more prevalent" during the pandemic.
Danmark Seneste Nyt, Danmark Overskrifter
Similar News:Du kan også læse nyheder, der ligner denne, som vi har indsamlet fra andre nyhedskilder.
Priti Patel could make possession of laughing gas a criminal offence‘Smart education, not blunt regulation, is required,’ expert says as home secretary again touts ‘tough action’
Læs mere »
Priti Patel could make possession of laughing gas a criminal offence‘Smart education, not blunt regulation, is required,’ expert says as home secretary again touts ‘tough action’
Læs mere »
Most extreme abortion law in US takes effect in Texas – videoConcern new laws will spur abortion ‘bounty hunters’ who can win $10,000 after suing anyone who 'aids or abets' an abortion after six weeks
Læs mere »
Prince Andrew, Bob Dylan, Catholic priests and the Child Victims ActThousands of child sex abuse claims have been filed thanks to a change in New York law.
Læs mere »
New abortion laws in Texas have been branded 'cruel' and 'dangerous'The extreme changes will make it harder than ever to have a safe termination
Læs mere »
The incredible way TikTokers are fighting the new anti-abortion lawAnger over the near-total ban on abortion in Texas is clear on TikTok, where users are utilising Shrek memes to make their voices hear.
Læs mere »