HC Deb 25 January 1983 vol 35 cc773-4
6. Mr. Campbell-Savours

asked the Secretary of State for Science how many schoolchildren received free school milk in 1981ߝ82.

Dr. Boyson

This information is not collected by the Department.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

Has the Minister examined the results of the five-year clinical trials in Glasgow into the fluoridation of milk, and similar research that was carried out in Budapest, which showed a 75 per cent. reduction in the incidence of tooth decay in children? May we have a national scheme that will call upon more than the existing 20 per cent., or £10 million, of the £50 million allocation that has been made available by the European Community, especially in conditions of ever-increasing dairy surplus in the Community?

Dr. Boyson

This is probably more a question for the Department of Health and Social Services than for me. All I can say is that when I was a head teacher in the east end of London everyone, including the staff, had free toothpaste when fluoridation was tried by a British firm. If the hon. Gentleman raises the matter with the DHSS and sends a copy of this fascinating report to me, we shall all be delighted.