HL Deb 21 January 1999 vol 596 cc119-20WA
Earl Baldwin of Bewdley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their response to the three recent United States studies which show neurological damage to the brains of rats fed with fluorides (Neurotoxicology and Teratology 1995; 17,2:169–177; Brain Research 1998; 784–798; Neurotoxicology and Teratology 1998; 20:537–542); and [HL491]

What is their response to two recent Chinese studies which suggest that fluoridated water may adversely affect the IQs of children (Fluoride 1995; 28,4:189–192; Fluoride 1996; 29,4:190–192. [HL492]

Baroness Hayman

We are aware of these studies. They do not indicate that typical intakes of fluoride at levels experienced by the population of this country are harmful.

Earl Baldwin of Bewdley

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they believe that the action of fluoride at 1 part per million in water on human teeth is topical or systemic. [HL489]

Baroness Hayman

We consider that the action is both systemic and topical.