Fluoridation

This notes sets out the positions of various groups regarding the effects of fluoridation of drinking water and the Government’s position. It is not a scientific critique.

From 1st April 2013 local authorities became responsible for consulting and deciding on fluoridation schemes. In February 2013 the Government issued regulations instructing local authorities on the conduct of “consultations and decision making on proposals for either new fluoridation schemes or variations, maintenance or the termination of existing fluoridation schemes”.

The Government will issue guidance to local authorities on implementation of the regulations “which will include sources of information on the latest research evidence on the effects of fluoridation, good practice on the conduct of consultations and advice to local authorities and water companies on assessing the feasibility of a fluoridation proposal”. The guidance is yet to be published.