CONSERVATIVES questioned whether it is safe to put fluoride in Richmond’s water supply at a meeting of the London Assembly Health Committee this week.

Cllr Tony Arbour, Richmond’s council leader and representative on the assembly, explained that concern is growing about fluoride.

Those in favour say it is the most effective public health measure in reducing dental decay and for tackling oral health inequalities.

They believe poor dental health leads to general health problems and low self-esteem.

But opponents of fluoridation say the long-term impact has not been fully investigated and add that many British people have religious convictions against the ‘adulteration’ of drinking water.

Cllr Arbour said: “It is paramount that the debate into the addition of fluoride to water does not turn into a hysterical shouting match whereby the proponents and opponents try to out argue each other.

“We firstly need to ascertain whether or not it is safe for Richmond’s water to have fluoride added. If it is, then the considerations of those who might have concerns need to be taken into account.

“It is imperative that the debate into this is handled maturely and I hope other political parties will not make knee-jerk comments in a bid to gain publicity.” Fluoridation involves injecting a fluoride solution into the supply at water treatment plants. At present, ten per cent of the UK population receives fluoridated water, compared with 60 per cent in the USA.