A NEW anti-fluoride battle has been sparked in the North-west after Government moves to encourage water companies to add the chemical to supplies.

Health Minister Tessa Jowell's plans were backed by Bolton South East MP Dr Brian Iddon, who said fluoridation had a huge impact on the health of children's teeth.

Mrs Jowell was responding to Labour MP David Lock, who called for water companies to be forced to put fluoride in pipes when asked by health authorities.

North West Water, which serves the Bolton area, has resisted calls to add fluoride because of opposition from many customers.

Mr Lock highlighted areas such as north Manchester and Blackburn as blackspots for tooth decay because the water was fluoride free.

But the Wyre Forest back bencher was risking an internal party row as Home Secretary and Blackburn MP Jack Straw is a strong opponent.

Mr Lock claimed that fluoride in tap water was an important, safe and effective weapon against tooth decay, but often the water companies refused health authority requests, using the excuse of possible legal action by customers.

Mrs Jowell said the final decision rested with water companies, but she promised to reform the current legal framework, which she branded "a mess", to clear up the confusion over their legal liability.

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