Michael Gove defends government plan to ban laughing gas

Levelling up secretary says it is right to outlaw use of nitrous oxide because it fuels antisocial behaviour

Michael Gove has defended the prime minister’s focus on banning the sale of laughing gas, saying the proposals will stop parks being turned into drug-taking arenas.

The ban is part of the government’s antisocial behaviour plans which are to be unveiled on Monday and will also include victims of crimes and communities being given a say over the type of penalties that offenders should face.