SIR: Your report of the Health Authorities' attack on the Water Authorities' refusal to add fluoride to our drinking water (BEN: January 15) is a classic example of the arrogance that this unelected body can muster.

To suggest that the Water Authority is to blame for the increase in children's dental decay is, to say the least, ludicrous.

The water authorities have a duty to supply pure, unadulterated water, and to keep all impurities out. The addition of a known poison, fluoride, in whatever quantities, should be a non-starter.

Perhaps it can be good for children's teeth, but so is dental hygiene. Mike Chapman is quite correct to say there is no point preaching to children the benefits of fluoride in toothpaste, when many do not own a toothbrush. But who is to blame for that?

To suggest that the whole population suffers the addition of a poisonous substance in their water, because of parents who are falling down on their responsibilities, is nonsense.

It has been reported that, in the Midlands, there are a large number of cases of bone and kidney complaints in the elderly, due, it is thought, to the addition of fluoride in the water. We must refuse to accept this measure until some Authority will accept responsibility for any harmful results.

Some years ago, the then editor of our local paper asked: "Why won't the Regional Health Authority take 'No' for an answer?" They have wasted thousands of pounds in trying to push this measure through.

Mr ?T Ainsworth,

Pimlott Road, Bolton.

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