KEIGHLEY MP Robbie Moore is demanding a clampdown on the sale of nitrous oxide ­– commonly known as laughing gas.

The drug is a colourless gas usually inhaled through a balloon and is contained in silver-coloured metal cannisters – a common sight discarded on streets.

Supplying or importing nitrous oxide for human consumption has been illegal since 2016. But Mr Moore says there is currently no punishment for possession of equipment related to it.

He adds: “The laughing gas drug and its impact on our community is becoming too much. Hundreds of constituents I’ve spoken to have said the cannisters are being found far too often and this is not OK when we’re talking about an illegal substance.

“I will be part of an all-party parliamentary group of MPs who are keen to ensure we can eradicate the supply, sale and use of this drug from our streets.”

Nitrous oxide is used by dentists as a sedative and anaesthetic agent and is also used in the catering industry, but when misused can prove fatal.