Rastrick councillor Craig Whittaker: ‘Fears we will get fluoride by default’

Nov 24 2009 by Joanne Douglas, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

“But despite that, we want to do everything we can to make sure we make our views known.”

Fluoride was put into some water supplies in parts of Huddersfield up until 1988.

There are arguments for and against the issue – some claim it would improve dental health but others argue it is mass medication.

An online petition formed by Clr Whittaker says the benefits are based on unsound medical science, that fluoride is harmful to the environment and defies all common medical ethics.

NHS Kirklees has stressed that no decision will be made until a public consultation has been carried out.

Yesterday NHS Kirklees said a feasibility study is being carried out and the results are not due until early next year.

Currently, there is no fluoride within Yorkshire’s water.

The issue will be debated by Calderdale Council on December 2.

“It is fundamentally wrong that a request byŠNHS Bradford and Airedale andŠNHS Kirklees could result in areas in Calderdale having artificial fluoride in their water almost by default,” he added.

“Therefore, not only does this motion enable the council to reaffirm its previous position, it also instructs officers to undertake own public consultation to ascertain the views of residents.”

You can add your name to the online petition at SayNOtofluoridation.com