§ Lord Colwynasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are satisfied that Northumbrian Water's recent decision not to accede to the health authorities' request for fluoridation is consistent with the will of Parliament.
§ Baroness Jay of PaddingtonUnder the Water Industry Act 1991, Northumbrian Water may fluoridate the water supply in their area when requested to do so by the health authority. It is for the courts to decide the duties and responsibilities of water undertakers under the Act.
§ Lord Colwynasked Her Majesty's Government:
What steps they are taking to ensure that local decisions on whether to fluoridate water supplies are taken by health authorities rather than water companies.
§ Baroness Jay of PaddingtonThe Water Industry Act 1991 gives health authorities the power to decide, after public consultation, whether or not to apply for fluoridation of the water supplies.