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dentists, and their staffs, the whole project would not have been possible.
Fluoridation of Water Supplies
The Council, on the recommendati6n of the Health Committee, agreed on October
13, 1965,to inform the Metropolitan Water Board that they supported the fluoridation
of water supplies in this area. The present position regarding fluoridation in all
the London Boroughs and those Home Counties whose water supply comes wholly or in
part from the Metropolitan Water Board, is as follows:
of twenty-nine boroughs within the area, twenty-two are in favour and seven
against; of the four Home Counties within the area, three are in favour and
one against.
These figures show a three quarters majority in favour of fluoridation.
A deputation from the London Boroughs' Association attended on the Minister of
Health on August 3, 1966. The Association felt that "The delay in introducing this
important preventive health measure was frustrating and pressed for introduction of
legislation to enable the fluoridation of water supplies to be directed nationally".
The Minister indicated that whilst he recognised the case for legislation, its
difficulty should not be underestimated. He felt that further public education in
the advantages of fluoridation would be essential to counter the existing opposition
to it. In the meantime, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Housing and
Local Government were working closely with water authorities and legislation was
"under consideration".
In view of the Council's wish to improve the dental health of our children by
the fluoridation of water, it is hoped that strong pressure will be applied in the
near future in concert with other London boroughs to reduce the present position of
stalemate and achieve the introduction of this simple,safe and effective public health
measure.
Dental Care in Children's Residential Schools and Houses
Dental services are provided for children at the following residential homes
within and outside the borough;
Langley House, E.14. - regular dental inspections at the Home and
treatment at Bethnal Green Clinic.
St. Leonards, Hornchurch,
Essex. - the 260 children in this Home receive regular
inspection and treatment at our own dental
surgery in the sick bay.
A dental officer attends for one day each
week.
92.