HC Deb 14 February 1966 vol 724 cc909-10
26. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Minister of Health if he is aware that in certain areas decisions against the fluoridation of water supplies are being taken; and if he will give an undertaking that he will take steps to ensure that children in these areas will not be allowed to suffer unnecessary damage to their dental health through any fluoride deficiency in their water supplies being allowed to continue.

Mr. K. Robinson

I am hopeful that those local health authorities which have not yet resolved in favour of fluoridation will soon recognise it as an effective and completely safe means of preventing dental decay; but the responsibility for action to promote the dental health of children in their areas is theirs.

Mr. Shepherd

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this has brought forth all the cranks in Christendom, and that he has a responsibility beyond that which is stated, which is to see that the dental health of the nation does not suffer because of the ridiculous utterances of this bunch of cranks?

Mr. Robinson

I would not altogether dissent from the general sentiments which the hon. Gentleman has expressed. I welcome the support which many hon. Members are giving in persuading the public to accept fluoridation, but I think that at this stage at any rate, persuasion and voluntary local action are the right way to proceed.

Mr. Lubbock

What steps is the Minister taking to re-educate reactionary councillors in the local authorities who have rejected fluoridation?

Mr. Rankin

Reactionary Members.

Mr. Robinson

All steps of a persuasive nature.

Mr. Rankin

Is not the word "fluoride" a disguise for the medical term "sodium fluoride", which is a well-known poison and cannot be good for anybody?

Mr. Robinson

My hon. Friend's supplementary question is not untypical of the propaganda with which local authorities are being deluged.