Tory's broken promise
SO thanks to Mr Cameron's broken promises regarding doctoring our water supply with fluoride, it looks as if this will go ahead.
What a good vote catcher he operated by saying he'd give us a say in the matter. Well it's the last time they will get my vote and I suspect many other people's.
He shouldn't always listen to "experts" -remember it was "experts" who gave thalidomide to pregnant women and we all know how beneficial that turned out to be!
MRS L LAKE, Totton.
29 Jul 2010
25 Jul 2010
22 Jul 2010
Daily Echo - Tory MP's anger at fluoride silence
Tory MP's anger at fluoride silence
By Jon Reeve
ANOTHER Tory Hampshire MP has attacked his own party for failing to deliver its promises to change the law on fluoridation.
Julian Lewis, pictured, is furious after senior Conservatives have refused to comment on the scheme, and backed away from election pledges to look at the rules surrounding how the chemical is introduced to water.
The New Forest East MP has accused health ministers of "unethically" attempting to hide behind the very laws they criticised before winning power.
And he is demanding an urgent answer on whether his party still believes communities should not be fluoridated against their will.
The move comes just days after the new Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North, Caroline Nokes, sent a letter to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, saying she was "very let down" by the failure to give people a referendum on .fluoridation.
Dr Lewis' own attack has come in a letter to Anne Milton, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health, who is responsible for fluoride policy.
He is upset with a response from her to a request he made, asking the Department of Health for assurances it was still intending to give the public the final say over fluoridation schemes.
She refused to comment on the Hampshire scheme because of a judicial review that has been lodged into the way the decision was made.
More than 10,000 peo-pie gave their views >fr * during the consultation § on plans to add the chemical to tap water delivered to almost 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton,Eastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams.
Despite almost three-quarters of responses objecting, South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) approved the plans.
Before the election, Mr Lansley and Tory leader David Cameron voiced concerns over the SHA's consultation and questioned if the scheme should be going ahead in the face of public opposition.
"Health ministers appear to be trying to shelter behind the very legislation in the very manner we objected to in opposition," Dr Lewis said.
"This is an unethical position to take and I trust that you do not intend seriously to take it." Dr Lewis said he wants an answer "without further delay" 'over whether the Government stands by the principle that communities should not have fluoridation imposed on them when there is clear opposition.
By Jon Reeve
ANOTHER Tory Hampshire MP has attacked his own party for failing to deliver its promises to change the law on fluoridation.
Julian Lewis, pictured, is furious after senior Conservatives have refused to comment on the scheme, and backed away from election pledges to look at the rules surrounding how the chemical is introduced to water.
The New Forest East MP has accused health ministers of "unethically" attempting to hide behind the very laws they criticised before winning power.
And he is demanding an urgent answer on whether his party still believes communities should not be fluoridated against their will.
The move comes just days after the new Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North, Caroline Nokes, sent a letter to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, saying she was "very let down" by the failure to give people a referendum on .fluoridation.
Dr Lewis' own attack has come in a letter to Anne Milton, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health, who is responsible for fluoride policy.
He is upset with a response from her to a request he made, asking the Department of Health for assurances it was still intending to give the public the final say over fluoridation schemes.
She refused to comment on the Hampshire scheme because of a judicial review that has been lodged into the way the decision was made.
More than 10,000 peo-pie gave their views >fr * during the consultation § on plans to add the chemical to tap water delivered to almost 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton,Eastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams.
Despite almost three-quarters of responses objecting, South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) approved the plans.
Before the election, Mr Lansley and Tory leader David Cameron voiced concerns over the SHA's consultation and questioned if the scheme should be going ahead in the face of public opposition.
"Health ministers appear to be trying to shelter behind the very legislation in the very manner we objected to in opposition," Dr Lewis said.
"This is an unethical position to take and I trust that you do not intend seriously to take it." Dr Lewis said he wants an answer "without further delay" 'over whether the Government stands by the principle that communities should not have fluoridation imposed on them when there is clear opposition.
21 Jul 2010
EU - Public consultation
Public consultation
Public consultation on the preliminary opinion concerning the critical review of any new evidence on the hazard profile, health effects, and human exposure to fluoride and the fluoridating agents of drinking water
The European Commission has requested the Scientific Committee on Health and Environment Risks (SCHER) to critically evaluate any new evidence on the hazard profile, health effects, and human exposure to fluoride, and assessment of the risks that may be associated with the use of the most common drinking water fluoridating agents including silicofluorides (e.g. (hydro)fluorosilicic acid, sodium silicofluoride, disodium hexafluorosilicate or hexafluorosilicic acid).
Click title to go to page to see all the references to documents.
Public consultation on the preliminary opinion concerning the critical review of any new evidence on the hazard profile, health effects, and human exposure to fluoride and the fluoridating agents of drinking water
The European Commission has requested the Scientific Committee on Health and Environment Risks (SCHER) to critically evaluate any new evidence on the hazard profile, health effects, and human exposure to fluoride, and assessment of the risks that may be associated with the use of the most common drinking water fluoridating agents including silicofluorides (e.g. (hydro)fluorosilicic acid, sodium silicofluoride, disodium hexafluorosilicate or hexafluorosilicic acid).
Click title to go to page to see all the references to documents.
20 Jul 2010
Fluoride Action Network Newsletter
Fluoride Action Network
http://fluoridealert.org/
FAN Bulletin 2025: The Anatomy of Deception in Florida. Part 1
July 20, 2010
Before we get to the Florida deception, some good news. We have reached another important milestone. Today, we recorded our 3,000 signer of the Professionals' Statement calling for an end to fluoridation.
Background to the Florida deception.
The Florida Dental Association (FDA) is worried about the number of communities that are questioning fluoridation in that state. This has partly come about because the cost of fluoridating chemicals is rising at the same time that financially strapped councils are looking for ways to save money.
The FDA's publicity campaign on fluoridation
The FDA (not to be confused with the Food and Drug Administration) has set in motion a publicity campaign on the fluoridation issue. The FDA has spelled out exactly what they are doing, down to the coalitions they wish to form; the local groups they wish to co-opt; the letters they want dentists to sign; a power point presentation they want them to use and a short video they want the public to watch.
Fortunately for us and the citizens of Florida, we can read or watch this material as well (see the links below).
What we have found - and you will find - is that both the citizens of Florida and their dentists are being grossly deceived. This FDA material is full of mistakes and half-truths and some outright falsehoods. Worse still one of the letters dentists are being encouraged to sign contains a phrase that could well trigger a slander action against any unwitting signer.
If the dentists sign some of these letters without carefully reading what they say they could be heading for huge embarrassment or worse. They might have got away with this a few years ago when there was not a ready source of accurate information on this topic, but today that is no longer the case. With our website readily available to all (www.FluorideAlert.org); with the 2006 NRC report accessible online (ref 1 below, also accessible from the FAN website); with the Professional Perspectives video available online (also accessible from the FAN website), there is absolutely no excuse for these kind of errors for any one exercising due diligence on the matter. Moreover, with the new book (The Case Against Fluoride) due to come out in the Fall, there will be even less excuse for this kind of misleading and false information to be broadcast to a largely unsuspecting public..........
http://fluoridealert.org/
FAN Bulletin 2025: The Anatomy of Deception in Florida. Part 1
July 20, 2010
Before we get to the Florida deception, some good news. We have reached another important milestone. Today, we recorded our 3,000 signer of the Professionals' Statement calling for an end to fluoridation.
Background to the Florida deception.
The Florida Dental Association (FDA) is worried about the number of communities that are questioning fluoridation in that state. This has partly come about because the cost of fluoridating chemicals is rising at the same time that financially strapped councils are looking for ways to save money.
The FDA's publicity campaign on fluoridation
The FDA (not to be confused with the Food and Drug Administration) has set in motion a publicity campaign on the fluoridation issue. The FDA has spelled out exactly what they are doing, down to the coalitions they wish to form; the local groups they wish to co-opt; the letters they want dentists to sign; a power point presentation they want them to use and a short video they want the public to watch.
Fortunately for us and the citizens of Florida, we can read or watch this material as well (see the links below).
What we have found - and you will find - is that both the citizens of Florida and their dentists are being grossly deceived. This FDA material is full of mistakes and half-truths and some outright falsehoods. Worse still one of the letters dentists are being encouraged to sign contains a phrase that could well trigger a slander action against any unwitting signer.
If the dentists sign some of these letters without carefully reading what they say they could be heading for huge embarrassment or worse. They might have got away with this a few years ago when there was not a ready source of accurate information on this topic, but today that is no longer the case. With our website readily available to all (www.FluorideAlert.org); with the 2006 NRC report accessible online (ref 1 below, also accessible from the FAN website); with the Professional Perspectives video available online (also accessible from the FAN website), there is absolutely no excuse for these kind of errors for any one exercising due diligence on the matter. Moreover, with the new book (The Case Against Fluoride) due to come out in the Fall, there will be even less excuse for this kind of misleading and false information to be broadcast to a largely unsuspecting public..........
Daily Echo - Please help, Mr Clegg
Please help, Mr legg
A MESSAGE to David Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister in Coalition in Government, to support us in our cry against the enforcement of fluoride in our tap water.' Dear Mr Clegg, Many people lament the loss of our great supporter, Mrs. Sandra Gidley ex MP for Romsey who decried the use of such poison in our drinking water. I believe many MPs are supporting their constituents but thousands of us are all left in limbo.
We are very thankful you have, at least, a finger in the pie when decisions are made, so I implore you PLEASE don't forsake us, the
Liberal Democrat supporters entirely.
You will, no doubt, read thoroughly the reports, those for and against, but I assure you there are thousands who are really worried.
As with most mandates, should there be one, will not entirely cover the majority who for various reasons, problems etc., are unable to ascribe their name to a ballot paper.
We do not wish for a "sit on the fence" Deputy Prime Minister - we really need your concern and understanding to an "out on a limb" constituancy who have lost their ex-MP Sandra Gidley.
JMOORBY.
A MESSAGE to David Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister in Coalition in Government, to support us in our cry against the enforcement of fluoride in our tap water.' Dear Mr Clegg, Many people lament the loss of our great supporter, Mrs. Sandra Gidley ex MP for Romsey who decried the use of such poison in our drinking water. I believe many MPs are supporting their constituents but thousands of us are all left in limbo.
We are very thankful you have, at least, a finger in the pie when decisions are made, so I implore you PLEASE don't forsake us, the
Liberal Democrat supporters entirely.
You will, no doubt, read thoroughly the reports, those for and against, but I assure you there are thousands who are really worried.
As with most mandates, should there be one, will not entirely cover the majority who for various reasons, problems etc., are unable to ascribe their name to a ballot paper.
We do not wish for a "sit on the fence" Deputy Prime Minister - we really need your concern and understanding to an "out on a limb" constituancy who have lost their ex-MP Sandra Gidley.
JMOORBY.
18 Jul 2010
Black tea severely dangerous for bones, finds study
Black tea severely dangerous for bones, finds study
by Silky Chandvani - July 17, 2010 0
If you are addicted to a cup of black tea each morning, think twice before sipping the so-called “stress buster.” Scientists at Medical College Of Georgia have now revealed that black tea contains toxic fluorides that could make your bones weak.
The study surmises that fluoride content in tea is much higher than the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) set for fluoride in drinking water.
Excess fluoride makes black tea undesirable
Black tea, the most popular tea in the West and in India, is made from leaves that are fully oxidised. It has a stronger flavour and higher caffeine content than the other types of teas, which undergo less oxidation.
Unlike other teas, black tea has longer shelf life and retains its flavour for many years.
Most published reports say that there is 1 to 5 milligrams of fluoride in a litre of black tea, but the new study shows that the number could be as high as 9 milligrams.
Fluoride is known to help prevent dental cavities, but long-term ingestion of excessive amounts could cause osteoporosis and other bone related disorders.
The findings came after Dr. Gary Whitford, of the School of Dentistry and co-author of the study, examined four patients who were suffering from advanced skeletal fluorosis--a condition caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride and characterized by joint and bone pain and damage.
Dr. Whitford observed that these patients had one thing in common: they drank 1 to 2 gallons of tea every day for 10 to 30 years.
He also found that tea leaves also contain higher levels of aluminum, which is considered neuron-toxic.
Reportedly, consuming higher amounts of black tea could result in fluoride poisoning too.
The findings were presented at the 2010 International Association of Dental Research Conference in Barcelona, Spain.
Health hazards related to black tea
One of the world’s most popular non alcoholic drinks has several disadvantages:
1. Tea leaves may cause cancer
2. The caffeine in tea has been linked to sleeping disorders.
3. The oxalates found in tea could affect the kidneys, especially if the tea is consumed in excess.
Also, a study suggests that having tea with milk reduces its ability to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
If black tea which we all drink has such a high fluoride content far more than supposed do you think this may make those advocating fluoridation think again - no nor do I.
by Silky Chandvani - July 17, 2010 0
If you are addicted to a cup of black tea each morning, think twice before sipping the so-called “stress buster.” Scientists at Medical College Of Georgia have now revealed that black tea contains toxic fluorides that could make your bones weak.
The study surmises that fluoride content in tea is much higher than the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) set for fluoride in drinking water.
Excess fluoride makes black tea undesirable
Black tea, the most popular tea in the West and in India, is made from leaves that are fully oxidised. It has a stronger flavour and higher caffeine content than the other types of teas, which undergo less oxidation.
Unlike other teas, black tea has longer shelf life and retains its flavour for many years.
Most published reports say that there is 1 to 5 milligrams of fluoride in a litre of black tea, but the new study shows that the number could be as high as 9 milligrams.
Fluoride is known to help prevent dental cavities, but long-term ingestion of excessive amounts could cause osteoporosis and other bone related disorders.
The findings came after Dr. Gary Whitford, of the School of Dentistry and co-author of the study, examined four patients who were suffering from advanced skeletal fluorosis--a condition caused by excessive ingestion of fluoride and characterized by joint and bone pain and damage.
Dr. Whitford observed that these patients had one thing in common: they drank 1 to 2 gallons of tea every day for 10 to 30 years.
He also found that tea leaves also contain higher levels of aluminum, which is considered neuron-toxic.
Reportedly, consuming higher amounts of black tea could result in fluoride poisoning too.
The findings were presented at the 2010 International Association of Dental Research Conference in Barcelona, Spain.
Health hazards related to black tea
One of the world’s most popular non alcoholic drinks has several disadvantages:
1. Tea leaves may cause cancer
2. The caffeine in tea has been linked to sleeping disorders.
3. The oxalates found in tea could affect the kidneys, especially if the tea is consumed in excess.
Also, a study suggests that having tea with milk reduces its ability to prevent cardiovascular diseases.
If black tea which we all drink has such a high fluoride content far more than supposed do you think this may make those advocating fluoridation think again - no nor do I.
17 Jul 2010
16 Jul 2010
Daily Echo - Will we see cuts in the fluoride budget?
Will we see cuts in the fluoride budget?
SEVERAL months ago, Mike Penning MP, then Shadow Minister for Health, stated on behalf of Andrew Lansley, that "fluoridation should not be enforced against the will of a population". He also indicated that he was aware of the "public cynicism as a result of the current procedure".
People therefore have every right to expect action to be taken to allay their fears, and not (as reported in the Echo, July 5) to find them brushed aside.
Some may have noticed mention in recent days of the need for cutbacks and "austerity measures".
Since the former administration somewhat casually observed that a sum of £42m was nationally available to implement fluoridation, and since part of the Health Service would appear to have several hundred thousand pounds to hand to pursue a totally unnecessary court case, we naturally await a definite announcement that those funds are no longer to be had.
G PAYNE, Southampton.
SEVERAL months ago, Mike Penning MP, then Shadow Minister for Health, stated on behalf of Andrew Lansley, that "fluoridation should not be enforced against the will of a population". He also indicated that he was aware of the "public cynicism as a result of the current procedure".
People therefore have every right to expect action to be taken to allay their fears, and not (as reported in the Echo, July 5) to find them brushed aside.
Some may have noticed mention in recent days of the need for cutbacks and "austerity measures".
Since the former administration somewhat casually observed that a sum of £42m was nationally available to implement fluoridation, and since part of the Health Service would appear to have several hundred thousand pounds to hand to pursue a totally unnecessary court case, we naturally await a definite announcement that those funds are no longer to be had.
G PAYNE, Southampton.
Lymington Times
Axe NHS fluoride body quickly, urges Forest MP
THE proposed axing of the NHS body which approved fluoridating the water of 8,000 Totton residents should come as quickly as possible, the town's MP has urged.
The government's plans to give GPs more responsibility for spending will abolish primary care trusts and strategic health authorities — which have the power to add fluoride.
The plan affects 190,000 people around Southampton including Totton because of the layout of the pipes. Fluoridation was proposed to combat child tooth decay and approved by South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) last year.
New .Forest East's Julian Lewis called for the local SHA to be one of the first to be phased out and congratulated Conservative health secretary Andrew Lansley for taking "an axe to the forest of bureaucracy".
He said it would "ensure that it was no longer able to waste hundreds of thousands of pounds of our money on fighting a hopeless legal case to impose fluoridation on a population, three quarters of whom have
indicated that they do not want it".
Mr Lansley said: "Yes, 1 am indeed aware of precisely what my honourable friend says and will certainly take it into account."
The SHA has put aside £400,000 to fight a judicial review In the High Court next year. Opponents fear dangerous side effects, resent, "forced medication" and want a referendum.
They submitted a 15,000-name petition against the plan and during consultation 72% of 10,000 respondents were against — although a Mori telephone poll for the SHA showed only 38% opposed against 32% in support.
In a letter to health minister Anne Milton, Dr Lewis also demanded the government immediately state its position on whether It will change the law to insist that a majority of residents must approve before fluoride is added to their water.
He wrote: "That was the pledge by a shadow health minister in the run-up to the election: nothing about the court case currently underway need impede you from answering the question now."
THE proposed axing of the NHS body which approved fluoridating the water of 8,000 Totton residents should come as quickly as possible, the town's MP has urged.
The government's plans to give GPs more responsibility for spending will abolish primary care trusts and strategic health authorities — which have the power to add fluoride.
The plan affects 190,000 people around Southampton including Totton because of the layout of the pipes. Fluoridation was proposed to combat child tooth decay and approved by South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) last year.
New .Forest East's Julian Lewis called for the local SHA to be one of the first to be phased out and congratulated Conservative health secretary Andrew Lansley for taking "an axe to the forest of bureaucracy".
He said it would "ensure that it was no longer able to waste hundreds of thousands of pounds of our money on fighting a hopeless legal case to impose fluoridation on a population, three quarters of whom have
indicated that they do not want it".
Mr Lansley said: "Yes, 1 am indeed aware of precisely what my honourable friend says and will certainly take it into account."
The SHA has put aside £400,000 to fight a judicial review In the High Court next year. Opponents fear dangerous side effects, resent, "forced medication" and want a referendum.
They submitted a 15,000-name petition against the plan and during consultation 72% of 10,000 respondents were against — although a Mori telephone poll for the SHA showed only 38% opposed against 32% in support.
In a letter to health minister Anne Milton, Dr Lewis also demanded the government immediately state its position on whether It will change the law to insist that a majority of residents must approve before fluoride is added to their water.
He wrote: "That was the pledge by a shadow health minister in the run-up to the election: nothing about the court case currently underway need impede you from answering the question now."
15 Jul 2010
14 Jul 2010
13 Jul 2010
Parliament
Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): I congratulate my right hon. Friend on his firm grasp of the subject and on taking an axe to the forest of bureaucracy. As he proposes to phase out the strategic health authorities, may I nominate the South Central strategic health authority-he knows what is coming-because that would ensure that it was no longer able to waste hundreds of thousands of pounds of our money on fighting a hopeless legal case to impose fluoridation on a population, three quarters of whom have indicated that they do not want it?
Mr Lansley: Yes, I am indeed aware of precisely what my hon. Friend says and will certainly take it into account.
Mr Lansley: Yes, I am indeed aware of precisely what my hon. Friend says and will certainly take it into account.
Daily Echo - Fluoridation opponents welcome axe
Fluoridation opponents welcome axe
THE decision to axe strategic health authorities was yesterday welcomed by opponents of fluoridation, who said it would help kill off controversial plans to add the chemical to Southampton's water supply
Julian Lewis, Tory MP for New Forest East, described the South Central SHA as the "unaccountable driving force" behind the proposal, which is currently subject to a judicial review, adding that he would be "very surprised" if any successor organisation tried to "resurrect" it.
In the Commons, Dr Lewis asked Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to consider prioritising South Central for the axe, in an
In the Commons, Dr Lewis asked Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to consider prioritising South Central for the axe, in an attempt to bring a speedy end to fluoridation. Mr who plans to get rid of PCTS and SHAs in 2013 said he would take into account the MP's representations. Dr Lewis told the Daily Echo afterwards he would be tabling Parliamentary questions to find out who would take over responsibility for fluoridation in the event of the abolition of the SHA, and what account such a body would be required to take of public opposition to the plans.
He said: "There's no way they could get fluoride into the water before [the SHA] disappeared. The SHA has been the unaccountable driving force behind this proposal to impose fluoridation on Southampton and Totton and now they are coming to the end of the road. "I would be very surprised and disappointed if any subsequent body was so arrogant as to seek to resurrect and impose compulsory fluoridation, on a city that clearly does not want it."
-
THE decision to axe strategic health authorities was yesterday welcomed by opponents of fluoridation, who said it would help kill off controversial plans to add the chemical to Southampton's water supply
Julian Lewis, Tory MP for New Forest East, described the South Central SHA as the "unaccountable driving force" behind the proposal, which is currently subject to a judicial review, adding that he would be "very surprised" if any successor organisation tried to "resurrect" it.
In the Commons, Dr Lewis asked Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to consider prioritising South Central for the axe, in an
In the Commons, Dr Lewis asked Health Secretary Andrew Lansley to consider prioritising South Central for the axe, in an attempt to bring a speedy end to fluoridation. Mr who plans to get rid of PCTS and SHAs in 2013 said he would take into account the MP's representations. Dr Lewis told the Daily Echo afterwards he would be tabling Parliamentary questions to find out who would take over responsibility for fluoridation in the event of the abolition of the SHA, and what account such a body would be required to take of public opposition to the plans.
He said: "There's no way they could get fluoride into the water before [the SHA] disappeared. The SHA has been the unaccountable driving force behind this proposal to impose fluoridation on Southampton and Totton and now they are coming to the end of the road. "I would be very surprised and disappointed if any subsequent body was so arrogant as to seek to resurrect and impose compulsory fluoridation, on a city that clearly does not want it."
-
Daily Echo - Fluoride plan 'smacks of dictatorship'
Fluoride plan 'smacks of dictatorship'
JULIAN Lewis is right to call for legislation to block the loophole that can allow mass fluoridation of our water supplies by authorities disregarding the weight of local public opinion.
The current situation does not sit well under a coalition Government that promised fairness and a greater public say in their own areas.
Mass medication for all to eliminate the lack of dental care by some smacks of dictatorship and a lack of regard for some of the consequencies. The elderly are, in particular, vulnerable to increasing brittle bones from this noxious substance.
There is also no control on the specific daily amounts being ingested by individuals - as is the case in separately administered medication - as many drink more water or beverages than others.
Nowadays authorities should also consider the increased costs which could occur from all those objecting to such schemes.
Could they not claim their human rights against mass medication and demand supplies of fluoride free water to their properties on health grounds?
JO FOWLER, Hythe.
JULIAN Lewis is right to call for legislation to block the loophole that can allow mass fluoridation of our water supplies by authorities disregarding the weight of local public opinion.
The current situation does not sit well under a coalition Government that promised fairness and a greater public say in their own areas.
Mass medication for all to eliminate the lack of dental care by some smacks of dictatorship and a lack of regard for some of the consequencies. The elderly are, in particular, vulnerable to increasing brittle bones from this noxious substance.
There is also no control on the specific daily amounts being ingested by individuals - as is the case in separately administered medication - as many drink more water or beverages than others.
Nowadays authorities should also consider the increased costs which could occur from all those objecting to such schemes.
Could they not claim their human rights against mass medication and demand supplies of fluoride free water to their properties on health grounds?
JO FOWLER, Hythe.
12 Jul 2010
11 Jul 2010
Hustings for Labour leader contest in Southampton
Hustings for Labour leader contest in Southampton
1:20pm Saturday 10th July 2010
Parliamentary Correspondent
LABOUR’S leadership hopefuls were today attempting to woo hundreds of party activists as the battle to replace Gordon Brown comes to Southampton.
A hustings event, held at the De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel in the city, saw members from across the South come face to face with the five contenders as they slug it out for votes.
Diane Abbott, Ed Balls, Andy Burnham, David Miliband and Ed Miliband, who were confirmed as candidates several weeks ago, have already taken part in a series of televised and live debates around the UK. .................
KEEN to paint himself as the working class, antielite, anti-London candidate, Scouser Andy Burnham believes his plan for a National Care Service, to provide financial security for older people faced with going into a care home, will be a vote-winner in the affluent South. The former health secretary – and vocal Everton FC supporter – claims to be “utterly and totally persuaded’’ by the benefits of water fluoridation. Backed by New Forest East constituency Labour party.
1:20pm Saturday 10th July 2010
Parliamentary Correspondent
LABOUR’S leadership hopefuls were today attempting to woo hundreds of party activists as the battle to replace Gordon Brown comes to Southampton.
A hustings event, held at the De Vere Grand Harbour Hotel in the city, saw members from across the South come face to face with the five contenders as they slug it out for votes.
Diane Abbott, Ed Balls, Andy Burnham, David Miliband and Ed Miliband, who were confirmed as candidates several weeks ago, have already taken part in a series of televised and live debates around the UK. .................
KEEN to paint himself as the working class, antielite, anti-London candidate, Scouser Andy Burnham believes his plan for a National Care Service, to provide financial security for older people faced with going into a care home, will be a vote-winner in the affluent South. The former health secretary – and vocal Everton FC supporter – claims to be “utterly and totally persuaded’’ by the benefits of water fluoridation. Backed by New Forest East constituency Labour party.
10 Jul 2010
Lymington Times
Anti-fluoride group urge water law repeal
A CAMPAIGN group against fluoride being added to the water supply of 8,000 Totton residents is calling on the government to repeal the legislation that would allow it.
Hampshire Against Fluoridation (HAF) has responded to an appeal on the government's website from deputy prime minister Nick Clegg to find out if members of the public feel any regulations should be changed by the coalition.
Writing on the site, HAF chairman Stephen Peckham said: "We call upon the government to listen to local communities and respect the right of the individual not to be forced to drink medicated water.
"We therefore urge the government to repeal the legislation that allows this to happen and use NHS resources to support targeted evidence-based and more effective measures to prevent tooth decay in the small proportion of children most in need of help."
If given the go-ahead, the controversial decision, which was approved in February last year by the South Central Strategic Health Authority to combat child tooth decay in the city, will affect 190,000 people in total and includes Totton because of the layout of the pipes.
It is opposed by local councils and New Forest East MP Julian Lewis, and is being fought in the high court with a judicial review. Opponents fear dangerous side effects, resent forced medication and want a referendum.
A CAMPAIGN group against fluoride being added to the water supply of 8,000 Totton residents is calling on the government to repeal the legislation that would allow it.
Hampshire Against Fluoridation (HAF) has responded to an appeal on the government's website from deputy prime minister Nick Clegg to find out if members of the public feel any regulations should be changed by the coalition.
Writing on the site, HAF chairman Stephen Peckham said: "We call upon the government to listen to local communities and respect the right of the individual not to be forced to drink medicated water.
"We therefore urge the government to repeal the legislation that allows this to happen and use NHS resources to support targeted evidence-based and more effective measures to prevent tooth decay in the small proportion of children most in need of help."
If given the go-ahead, the controversial decision, which was approved in February last year by the South Central Strategic Health Authority to combat child tooth decay in the city, will affect 190,000 people in total and includes Totton because of the layout of the pipes.
It is opposed by local councils and New Forest East MP Julian Lewis, and is being fought in the high court with a judicial review. Opponents fear dangerous side effects, resent forced medication and want a referendum.
9 Jul 2010
Lymington Times - MP presses coalition on fluoride pledge
MP presses coalition on fluoride pledge
NEW FOREST EAST MP Julian Lewis has challenged the coalition government to stand by the Conservatives' pre-election pledge to bar fluoridation where a majority is against it.
He highlighted the united front in Hampshire between Conservatives and Liberal Democrats against fluoridation, which was approved by South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) last year.
The proposals from Southampton City Primary Care Trust aim to combat child tooth decay and will affect 190,000 people, including 8,000 referred in Totton.
As reported in the 'A&T', despite a pre-election statement that residents' approval was "vital", a senior Tory told Dr Lewis in the House of Commons in June that the coalition had "no plans" to toughen rules for introducing the controversial chemical.
Dr Lewis last week pressed the Lib Dem deputy leader of the House of Commons, David Heath, to state that the pledge made in opposition would not be weakened. But he referred Dr Lewis to health ministers instead.
Mr Heath replied: "It seems to me that this is a very important issue—I have a great deal of sympathy with the honourable gentleman's position — and I am sure that his constituents would like some clarity on the issue.
"However, I also know that the legislative framework under which these proposals are considered is the legislative framework introduced by the previous government."
NEW FOREST EAST MP Julian Lewis has challenged the coalition government to stand by the Conservatives' pre-election pledge to bar fluoridation where a majority is against it.
He highlighted the united front in Hampshire between Conservatives and Liberal Democrats against fluoridation, which was approved by South Central Strategic Health Authority (SHA) last year.
The proposals from Southampton City Primary Care Trust aim to combat child tooth decay and will affect 190,000 people, including 8,000 referred in Totton.
As reported in the 'A&T', despite a pre-election statement that residents' approval was "vital", a senior Tory told Dr Lewis in the House of Commons in June that the coalition had "no plans" to toughen rules for introducing the controversial chemical.
Dr Lewis last week pressed the Lib Dem deputy leader of the House of Commons, David Heath, to state that the pledge made in opposition would not be weakened. But he referred Dr Lewis to health ministers instead.
Mr Heath replied: "It seems to me that this is a very important issue—I have a great deal of sympathy with the honourable gentleman's position — and I am sure that his constituents would like some clarity on the issue.
"However, I also know that the legislative framework under which these proposals are considered is the legislative framework introduced by the previous government."
Daily Echo - U-turn on fluoride angers new Tory
HAMPSHIRE: People want to make their views known - Caroline Nokes
U-turn on fluoride angers new Tory
By Andy Hate
parliamentary correspondent
A TORY MP has launched an outspoken attack on her own Government over its apparent climb-down on fluoridation in Hampshire.
Caroline Nokes, new MP for Romsey and Southampton North, pictured right, has written a strongly worded letter to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, in which she says she feels "very let down" by his failure to deliver a local referendum on the controversial move. She has also backed the Daily Echo's calls for a public referendum on the issue.
Before the general election, Mr Lansley, then shadow health secretary, told a Commons debate: "People must be given a more objective opportunity - either through a referendum or some other means - to make their views known." However, since May's poll, Tory Commons Leader George Young, MP for North West Hampshire, has signalled that the Government has no intention of clearing the way for a local referendum on fluoridation.
In response to a question from New Forest East MP Julian Lewis, Sir George said: "The coalition Government have no plans at this stage to change the legislation under which the health authority is proceeding with its plans to add fluoride to the water in Southampton and the surrounding district."
Now Mrs Nokes has revealed she had written to Mr Lansley to express her anger at the U-turn.
In her letter, she wrote: "Given the statements made prior to the election I am deeply disappointed with the statement... that 'there are no plans at this stage' to change the law surrounding fluoride being added to water supplies. "This was a significant election pledge, that local people would be given a proper say in a referendum, which in your own words, would give people a simple way to 'make a decision about this'. As a candidate in that election I felt confident that we would not go down the route of the previous Government, promising much and delivering very little. However, like my constituents, I now feel very let down."
Mrs Nokes, noting that 72 per cent of those who responded during a public consultation were against fluoride being added to their water supply, suggested that a cheaper option would be to "instruct the Strategic Health Authority to abandon this proposal, and in so doing ensure the voice of local people is heard".
Actively campaigned
The MP told the Daily Echo: "I actively campaigned to make sure this referendum happened so it is incumbent on me to make sure the Government sticks to its word. This is what disappoints people about politicians, when they say one thing and don't carry it through. I'm going to hassle Andrew Lansley at every available opportunity, and letting him know how disappointed I feel."
The decision by South Central Strategic Health Authority to approve the fluoridation of water supplies to the Southampton area is the subject of a judicial review, which is likely to be heard in the autumn.
U-turn on fluoride angers new Tory
By Andy Hate
parliamentary correspondent
A TORY MP has launched an outspoken attack on her own Government over its apparent climb-down on fluoridation in Hampshire.
Caroline Nokes, new MP for Romsey and Southampton North, pictured right, has written a strongly worded letter to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley, in which she says she feels "very let down" by his failure to deliver a local referendum on the controversial move. She has also backed the Daily Echo's calls for a public referendum on the issue.
Before the general election, Mr Lansley, then shadow health secretary, told a Commons debate: "People must be given a more objective opportunity - either through a referendum or some other means - to make their views known." However, since May's poll, Tory Commons Leader George Young, MP for North West Hampshire, has signalled that the Government has no intention of clearing the way for a local referendum on fluoridation.
In response to a question from New Forest East MP Julian Lewis, Sir George said: "The coalition Government have no plans at this stage to change the legislation under which the health authority is proceeding with its plans to add fluoride to the water in Southampton and the surrounding district."
Now Mrs Nokes has revealed she had written to Mr Lansley to express her anger at the U-turn.
In her letter, she wrote: "Given the statements made prior to the election I am deeply disappointed with the statement... that 'there are no plans at this stage' to change the law surrounding fluoride being added to water supplies. "This was a significant election pledge, that local people would be given a proper say in a referendum, which in your own words, would give people a simple way to 'make a decision about this'. As a candidate in that election I felt confident that we would not go down the route of the previous Government, promising much and delivering very little. However, like my constituents, I now feel very let down."
Mrs Nokes, noting that 72 per cent of those who responded during a public consultation were against fluoride being added to their water supply, suggested that a cheaper option would be to "instruct the Strategic Health Authority to abandon this proposal, and in so doing ensure the voice of local people is heard".
Actively campaigned
The MP told the Daily Echo: "I actively campaigned to make sure this referendum happened so it is incumbent on me to make sure the Government sticks to its word. This is what disappoints people about politicians, when they say one thing and don't carry it through. I'm going to hassle Andrew Lansley at every available opportunity, and letting him know how disappointed I feel."
The decision by South Central Strategic Health Authority to approve the fluoridation of water supplies to the Southampton area is the subject of a judicial review, which is likely to be heard in the autumn.
8 Jul 2010
HAMPSHIRE: Hampshire Against Fluoride calls for SHA legislation to be removed
HAMPSHIRE: Hampshire Against Fluoride calls for SHA legislation to be removed
Call for Clegg to scrap SHA's laws over fluoride
By Jon Reeve
Jon.reeve@dailyecho.co.uk
HAMPSHIRE campaigners are calling on the Deputy Prime Minister to scrap the law governing the way fluoride can be added to water supplies.
Nick Clegg has asked people to tell him what legislation they want to see removed as part of a bid by the new coalition Government to amend unpopular laws.
And Hampshire Against Fluoridation (HAF) has submitted an appeal for the rules putting the power to decide on fluoride in the hands of health chiefs to be scrapped.
They are now calling on Hampshire residents upset about the scheme - which would affect nearly 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton, Bastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams - to "vote" for their proposal on a Government website.
HAF chairman, Stephen Peckham said: "If you are concerned about this issue, this is the chance to have your say and make a comment.
"The current legislation allows a as opposed to an independent body - to carry out a consultation with the local community and then to totally ignore local opinion and impose fluoridation anyway. "We would like to get a really good response to this in order for the government to take notice and change this unfair law which allows the local community to be
ignored. "People must have the right not to
drink water medicated with this
chemical." The campaign group argues assurances were given when the Water Act was changed in 2003 and 2005 that any fluoridation schemes would not go ahead without the support of the local community
More than 10,000 people gave their views during a public consultation on the scheme, with 72 per cent of people living in the affected area saying they were against fluoridation.
But South Central Strategic Health Authority's (SHA) board unanimously approved the scheme, arguing they were convinced by evidence it would improve dental health and not have negative side effects.
The coalition has promised ideas submitted on the website, along with ratings and comments given by other users "will directly inform the Government's policy making".
The move comes just days alter senior Tories were accused of going back on pledges to look at the rules on fluoridation.
During the run-up to the election, now Prime Minister David Cameron and Health Secretary Andrew Lansley both voiced concerns over the SHA's consultation and questioned whether the scheme should be going ahead in the face of public opposition.
In the past, Lib Dem leader Mr Clegg has also expressed his opposition to the way fluoridation is being introduced in Hampshire.
He told HAF last year his party believed "people and local communities should have the ability to make their own decisions as to whether or not they should, take forms of medication, which -according to the stated purpose -fluoridation would effectively constitute.
"Mass fluoridation of water would leave people with no choice, and we believe that it should not be imposed by Whitehall diktat."
• To see, comment and vote on Hampshire Against Fluoridation's proposals to scrap the laws surrounding the way fluoride is introduced, log on to dailyecho.co.uk.
Call for Clegg to scrap SHA's laws over fluoride
By Jon Reeve
Jon.reeve@dailyecho.co.uk
HAMPSHIRE campaigners are calling on the Deputy Prime Minister to scrap the law governing the way fluoride can be added to water supplies.
Nick Clegg has asked people to tell him what legislation they want to see removed as part of a bid by the new coalition Government to amend unpopular laws.
And Hampshire Against Fluoridation (HAF) has submitted an appeal for the rules putting the power to decide on fluoride in the hands of health chiefs to be scrapped.
They are now calling on Hampshire residents upset about the scheme - which would affect nearly 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton, Bastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams - to "vote" for their proposal on a Government website.
HAF chairman, Stephen Peckham said: "If you are concerned about this issue, this is the chance to have your say and make a comment.
"The current legislation allows a as opposed to an independent body - to carry out a consultation with the local community and then to totally ignore local opinion and impose fluoridation anyway. "We would like to get a really good response to this in order for the government to take notice and change this unfair law which allows the local community to be
ignored. "People must have the right not to
drink water medicated with this
chemical." The campaign group argues assurances were given when the Water Act was changed in 2003 and 2005 that any fluoridation schemes would not go ahead without the support of the local community
More than 10,000 people gave their views during a public consultation on the scheme, with 72 per cent of people living in the affected area saying they were against fluoridation.
But South Central Strategic Health Authority's (SHA) board unanimously approved the scheme, arguing they were convinced by evidence it would improve dental health and not have negative side effects.
The coalition has promised ideas submitted on the website, along with ratings and comments given by other users "will directly inform the Government's policy making".
The move comes just days alter senior Tories were accused of going back on pledges to look at the rules on fluoridation.
During the run-up to the election, now Prime Minister David Cameron and Health Secretary Andrew Lansley both voiced concerns over the SHA's consultation and questioned whether the scheme should be going ahead in the face of public opposition.
In the past, Lib Dem leader Mr Clegg has also expressed his opposition to the way fluoridation is being introduced in Hampshire.
He told HAF last year his party believed "people and local communities should have the ability to make their own decisions as to whether or not they should, take forms of medication, which -according to the stated purpose -fluoridation would effectively constitute.
"Mass fluoridation of water would leave people with no choice, and we believe that it should not be imposed by Whitehall diktat."
• To see, comment and vote on Hampshire Against Fluoridation's proposals to scrap the laws surrounding the way fluoride is introduced, log on to dailyecho.co.uk.
5 Jul 2010
Daily Echo - What happened to the fluoride debate pledge?
HAMPSHIRE: Top Tories accused of abandoning fluoride fight after using it to win votes
What happened to the fluoride debate pledge?
By Jon Reeve
jon. reeve @ dailyecho.co.uk
THE Government has been accused of abandoning the campaign to stop the fluoridation of Hampshire water supplies.
High profile Tories had pledged before the election to step in to ensure the controversial scheme is not imposed in the face of public opposition. But they have now admitted they have no plans to change the law on how the chemical is introduced.
Anti-fluoride campaigners say they fear some Conservatives may have been using the subject purely to win votes in hotly-contested Hampshire seats.
The setback comes after Tory New Forest Bast MP Julian Lewis, who has consistently campaigned against fluoridation, asked for confirmation that promises from then shadow health ministers will go ahead.
Almost 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton, Eastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams are to have fluoridated tap water, under a scheme approved by South Central Strategic Health Authority last year. But during a public consultation, in which 10,000 people gave their views, 72 per cent of those from the affected area said they opposed the plans.
In January, the now health secretary Andrew Lansley told the Daily Echo he believed the SHA's consultation, which is now the subject of a High Court legal challenge, was "not real".
And Prime Minister David Cameron told this paper: "I have always taken the view that this is something that should be decided locally and I don't believe in compulsory fluoridation of water." But responding to Dr Lewis' question in Parliament, leader of the House Sir George Young said there are "no plans at this stage" to change the law surrounding fluoride being added to water supplies.
He said: "I would mislead my honourable friend if I said we were planning to do anything in the short term to change the legislative framework in which the decisions are made."
Hampshire Against Fluoridation chairman Stephen Peckham said he had been "disappointed" by the coalition's lack of action. He said: "You question whether people have been using the entire fluoridation campaign to garner votes -were they just saying it for that purpose?
"We were looking for a more positive response. "Before the election the shadow minister was very clear that whilst it would not be one of their priorities, it was definitely something that they would look at. "I think we would expect to see some movement, and that the department should be looking at this." Dr Lewis also said he was disappointed, but added that he has continued to press Mr Lansley to take action.
He said: "I shall be reminding the secretary of state for health of the excellent pledge from his spokesman that it's vital the people would have to agree before any decision is taken. "I expect that to be upheld, regardless of the outcome of the judicial review. "I think there's a loophole in the law that needs to be closed. I hope that what we're doing in Southampton will, ultimately, lead to the closure of that loophole that allows unelected and undemocratic organisations like strategic health authorities to say they've taken account that everyone disagrees with them, but they're going to carry on regardless.".
The scheme is on hold for legal challenge
THE scheme to fluoridate tap-water supplies in Hampshire is currently on hold because of a legal challenge against the plans.
A High Court judge will examine claims South Central Strategic Health Authority should not have ignored public opinion when it decided to approve fluoridation last year.
In November the court will hear an appeal from lawyers for Southampton
resident Geraldine Milner, fighting a decision not to allow a secondary argument that the SHA didnt properly look at all the evidence surrounding the process. Once the appeal has been completed, the full judicial review itself can then be held. But because of a backlog in the legal system that might not happen until next year, so even if the SHA wins the legal case it's unlikely the scheme , would be in place before the summer Of 2012.
And the legal bid is just one of the attempts to stop fluoridation.
Hampshire Against Fluoridation last year delivered a 15,300-name petition to then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown, urging him to force the SHA to change its mind. Earlier this month, Hampshire County Council leader Ken Thornber wrote new Health Secretary Andrew L asking him to intervene.
Several Hampshire MPs have said fluoridation should be scrapped or postponed because of public opposition, while there have also calls, backed by this paper, that legally-binding referendum should be held as the only way of giving people the final say.
What happened to the fluoride debate pledge?
By Jon Reeve
jon. reeve @ dailyecho.co.uk
THE Government has been accused of abandoning the campaign to stop the fluoridation of Hampshire water supplies.
High profile Tories had pledged before the election to step in to ensure the controversial scheme is not imposed in the face of public opposition. But they have now admitted they have no plans to change the law on how the chemical is introduced.
Anti-fluoride campaigners say they fear some Conservatives may have been using the subject purely to win votes in hotly-contested Hampshire seats.
The setback comes after Tory New Forest Bast MP Julian Lewis, who has consistently campaigned against fluoridation, asked for confirmation that promises from then shadow health ministers will go ahead.
Almost 200,000 homes in parts of Southampton, Eastleigh, Totton, Netley and Rownhams are to have fluoridated tap water, under a scheme approved by South Central Strategic Health Authority last year. But during a public consultation, in which 10,000 people gave their views, 72 per cent of those from the affected area said they opposed the plans.
In January, the now health secretary Andrew Lansley told the Daily Echo he believed the SHA's consultation, which is now the subject of a High Court legal challenge, was "not real".
And Prime Minister David Cameron told this paper: "I have always taken the view that this is something that should be decided locally and I don't believe in compulsory fluoridation of water." But responding to Dr Lewis' question in Parliament, leader of the House Sir George Young said there are "no plans at this stage" to change the law surrounding fluoride being added to water supplies.
He said: "I would mislead my honourable friend if I said we were planning to do anything in the short term to change the legislative framework in which the decisions are made."
Hampshire Against Fluoridation chairman Stephen Peckham said he had been "disappointed" by the coalition's lack of action. He said: "You question whether people have been using the entire fluoridation campaign to garner votes -were they just saying it for that purpose?
"We were looking for a more positive response. "Before the election the shadow minister was very clear that whilst it would not be one of their priorities, it was definitely something that they would look at. "I think we would expect to see some movement, and that the department should be looking at this." Dr Lewis also said he was disappointed, but added that he has continued to press Mr Lansley to take action.
He said: "I shall be reminding the secretary of state for health of the excellent pledge from his spokesman that it's vital the people would have to agree before any decision is taken. "I expect that to be upheld, regardless of the outcome of the judicial review. "I think there's a loophole in the law that needs to be closed. I hope that what we're doing in Southampton will, ultimately, lead to the closure of that loophole that allows unelected and undemocratic organisations like strategic health authorities to say they've taken account that everyone disagrees with them, but they're going to carry on regardless.".
The scheme is on hold for legal challenge
THE scheme to fluoridate tap-water supplies in Hampshire is currently on hold because of a legal challenge against the plans.
A High Court judge will examine claims South Central Strategic Health Authority should not have ignored public opinion when it decided to approve fluoridation last year.
In November the court will hear an appeal from lawyers for Southampton
resident Geraldine Milner, fighting a decision not to allow a secondary argument that the SHA didnt properly look at all the evidence surrounding the process. Once the appeal has been completed, the full judicial review itself can then be held. But because of a backlog in the legal system that might not happen until next year, so even if the SHA wins the legal case it's unlikely the scheme , would be in place before the summer Of 2012.
And the legal bid is just one of the attempts to stop fluoridation.
Hampshire Against Fluoridation last year delivered a 15,300-name petition to then-Prime Minister Gordon Brown, urging him to force the SHA to change its mind. Earlier this month, Hampshire County Council leader Ken Thornber wrote new Health Secretary Andrew L asking him to intervene.
Several Hampshire MPs have said fluoridation should be scrapped or postponed because of public opposition, while there have also calls, backed by this paper, that legally-binding referendum should be held as the only way of giving people the final say.
3 Jul 2010
Repeal of water fluoridation laws
Please register and vote at the Government web page if you support HAF
Hampshire Against Fluoridation calls on the government to repeal the legislation that allows Strategic Health Authorities to impose water fluoridation on local communities. Despite setting out the need for consultation, Sections 87-91 of the 2003 Water Act and the Indemnity and Consultation Regulations (SI 2005/920 and SI 2005/921) permit unelected SHA boards to ignore local opinion and compel water companies to fluoridate water supplies. This is despite a government study (York Review 2000) concluding that there is insufficient evidence to support water fluoridation as an effective public health measure. In his speech to the British Medical Association on 30th June, the Secretary of State for Health, Andrew Lansley, stated that public health measures should be evidence-based. The consultation in southern Hampshire was the first time these regulations have been put into practice and despite 72 percent of respondents to the consultation rejecting the proposal for fluoridation, the SHA decreed that it would go ahead. So much for all the assurances given by Ministers in Parliament that local communities would be listened to before water fluoridation was introduced.
Why the contribution is important
The consultation regulations allow for the compulsory medication of the local population without consent which is clearly unethical. The current legislation allows a pro-fluoride organisation (as opposed to an independent body) to carry out a “consultation” with the local community and then to totally ignore local opinion and impose water fluoridation regardless . Consultation itself is a meaningless exercise in this context as the legislation allows public opinion to be sidelined completely with unelected SHA boards able to ignore the consultation outcome . The end result is a colossal waste of NHS money, an unhappy community, disillusionment with the political system and legal action for which the NHS is diverting hundreds of thousands of pounds. The Southampton area is a test case – this is set to be repeated in many other areas of the country. NHS money should not be wasted in this way when essential services are under threat.
We call upon the Government to listen to local communities and respect the right of the individual not to be forced to drink medicated water. We therefore urge the Government to repeal the legislation that allows this to happen and use NHS resources to support targeted, evidence-based and more effective measures to prevent tooth decay in the small proportion off children most in need of help.
Hampshire Against Fluoridation calls on the government to repeal the legislation that allows Strategic Health Authorities to impose water fluoridation on local communities. Despite setting out the need for consultation, Sections 87-91 of the 2003 Water Act and the Indemnity and Consultation Regulations (SI 2005/920 and SI 2005/921) permit unelected SHA boards to ignore local opinion and compel water companies to fluoridate water supplies. This is despite a government study (York Review 2000) concluding that there is insufficient evidence to support water fluoridation as an effective public health measure. In his speech to the British Medical Association on 30th June, the Secretary of State for Health, Andrew Lansley, stated that public health measures should be evidence-based. The consultation in southern Hampshire was the first time these regulations have been put into practice and despite 72 percent of respondents to the consultation rejecting the proposal for fluoridation, the SHA decreed that it would go ahead. So much for all the assurances given by Ministers in Parliament that local communities would be listened to before water fluoridation was introduced.
Why the contribution is important
The consultation regulations allow for the compulsory medication of the local population without consent which is clearly unethical. The current legislation allows a pro-fluoride organisation (as opposed to an independent body) to carry out a “consultation” with the local community and then to totally ignore local opinion and impose water fluoridation regardless . Consultation itself is a meaningless exercise in this context as the legislation allows public opinion to be sidelined completely with unelected SHA boards able to ignore the consultation outcome . The end result is a colossal waste of NHS money, an unhappy community, disillusionment with the political system and legal action for which the NHS is diverting hundreds of thousands of pounds. The Southampton area is a test case – this is set to be repeated in many other areas of the country. NHS money should not be wasted in this way when essential services are under threat.
We call upon the Government to listen to local communities and respect the right of the individual not to be forced to drink medicated water. We therefore urge the Government to repeal the legislation that allows this to happen and use NHS resources to support targeted, evidence-based and more effective measures to prevent tooth decay in the small proportion off children most in need of help.
2 Jul 2010
Parliament
Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) (Con): Given the excellent agreement in New Forest East between leading Liberal Democrats and Conservatives that fluoridation should not be imposed on the community against its will, may we have a statement-not in the next two weeks, but perhaps in the next two minutes-from the Deputy Leader of the House, confirming that the fact that the Liberal Democrats have joined the Conservatives in government in no way vitiates the pledge given by shadow Conservative Health Ministers before the election that fluoridation should not and would not be imposed on communities that did not want it?
Mr Heath: The hon. Gentleman will not have a statement from me on a matter of health policy, but he can quite properly ask hon. and right hon. Friends in the Department of Health to give a response. It seems to me that this is a very important issue-I have a great deal of sympathy with the hon. Gentleman's position-and I am sure that his constituents would like some clarity on the issue. However, I also know that the legislative framework under which these proposals are considered is the legislative framework introduced by the previous Government.
Mr Heath: The hon. Gentleman will not have a statement from me on a matter of health policy, but he can quite properly ask hon. and right hon. Friends in the Department of Health to give a response. It seems to me that this is a very important issue-I have a great deal of sympathy with the hon. Gentleman's position-and I am sure that his constituents would like some clarity on the issue. However, I also know that the legislative framework under which these proposals are considered is the legislative framework introduced by the previous Government.
1 Jul 2010
Daily Echo - For a worrying warning, just look at the tube
For a worrying warning, just look at the tube
I LOOKED with interest at the directions for use on a Colgate fluoride toothpaste tube: 'Directions for use: Children of six years and younger, use a pea-sized amount for supervised brushing to minimise swallowing. In case of intake of fluoride from other sources consult a dentist or doctor. Contains: Sodium Fluoride'.
I wonder what Colgate's chemist found in fluoride that it may be of concern if a young child should come into contact with other sources of fluoride?
Surely such an estimable firm would have the best advice in order to sell the product over the counter, but would put a cautionary warning to go to one's doctor. It is not just the health of a child but surely this caution should also relate to people who may not be in the best of health or have a deficiency with their immune system.
Over many years antibiotics were prescribed automatically
when we were unwell, now we understand there are restrictions in the use of such.
What happens when cleaning one's teeth with Colgate fluoride one inadvertently swallows the fluoridated water?
Surely we would have reason to raise our fears with manufacturers. Needless to say, readers have also raised the question of fluoride being ingested in all animals, fish, vegetables - even in a variety of grains of which it is a mainstay in most households.
Many readers have advised that fluoride comes in many forms, including naturally. If fluoridated water is forced upon us and we are told it is safe, how on earth can we trust the word of experts, when the terrible thalidomide caused such catastrophic problems with newborn babies?
May I say to the experts who THINK they know what's good for us, better to be safe than sorry. It's not the money, it is playing God with our lives and our unborn babies' lives.
J MOORBY,
Address supplied.
I LOOKED with interest at the directions for use on a Colgate fluoride toothpaste tube: 'Directions for use: Children of six years and younger, use a pea-sized amount for supervised brushing to minimise swallowing. In case of intake of fluoride from other sources consult a dentist or doctor. Contains: Sodium Fluoride'.
I wonder what Colgate's chemist found in fluoride that it may be of concern if a young child should come into contact with other sources of fluoride?
Surely such an estimable firm would have the best advice in order to sell the product over the counter, but would put a cautionary warning to go to one's doctor. It is not just the health of a child but surely this caution should also relate to people who may not be in the best of health or have a deficiency with their immune system.
Over many years antibiotics were prescribed automatically
when we were unwell, now we understand there are restrictions in the use of such.
What happens when cleaning one's teeth with Colgate fluoride one inadvertently swallows the fluoridated water?
Surely we would have reason to raise our fears with manufacturers. Needless to say, readers have also raised the question of fluoride being ingested in all animals, fish, vegetables - even in a variety of grains of which it is a mainstay in most households.
Many readers have advised that fluoride comes in many forms, including naturally. If fluoridated water is forced upon us and we are told it is safe, how on earth can we trust the word of experts, when the terrible thalidomide caused such catastrophic problems with newborn babies?
May I say to the experts who THINK they know what's good for us, better to be safe than sorry. It's not the money, it is playing God with our lives and our unborn babies' lives.
J MOORBY,
Address supplied.
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