24. Mrs. Butlerasked the Minister of Health under what authority he has undertaken to indemnify local authorities and water undertakers in the event of court proceedings with regard to the powers of water undertakers to permit the addition of sodium fluoride to the water supply.
§ Mr. PowellMy general duty under the National Health Service Act, 1946.
Mrs. ButlerIs the Minister aware that, if it is legal to add to the water supply sodium fluoride which is many times more toxic than the natural calcium fluoride found in natural water supplies, there is no need for this indemnity? On the other hand, if it is not legal so to do, is not he putting himself in a dangerous position by appearing to put him- 938 self above the law, which is a very serious position for a Minister of the Crown?
§ Mr. PowellThe advice I have received is that this is lawful, but, as there is a possibility of proceedings, I considered it to be part of my duty under the Act to facilitate the introduction of fluoridation by the offer of the indemnity.