WE refer to the letter from Ian Upton (The Bolton News, January 24). He raises some important issues regarding the proposed fluoridation of our water, and we are pleased that a group is being formed who may contribute to the debate on this controversial subject.

Bolton Local Dental Committee look forward to working with any such group to improve the health of the people of Bolton.

Unfortunately, he crosses the divide between debate and mud-slinging when he implies the dental profession are supporting fluoridation of the water supply in order to profit from an increase in lucrative cosmetic work as a result of mottling and staining of teeth, a condition known as dental fluorosis.

The problems caused by this condition should be vigorously debated, but to imply that the dental profession is motivated by greed in supporting water fluoridation is abhorrent to, and frankly insulting to, the hard working and ethical dentists of Bolton.

We wish Mr Upton's group well and look forward to their valuable input, but if this is the standard of Mr Upton's debate perhaps he should stand aside and allow others to present their group's views in a constructive and mature fashion.

Peter Moss - Chairman John Colquitt - Secretary Chris Brooks - Press Officer Bolton Local Dental Committee