All very secretive - why not public? Bulletin title: CDO Update August 2005

Following changes to the Water Act in 2003 and parliament’s agreement of regulations on local consultation and indemnity with regard to water fluoridation, the Department of Health is issuing comprehensive guidance to SHAs during August. Additionally, a number of briefings on the guidance will be arranged for key stakeholders.

The guidance is aimed at Regional Directors of Public Health, SHA Chief Executives and Directors of Public Health at SHAs, plus PCT Chief Executives and Directors of Public Health. It covers the new legislative framework governing the consultations and assessment of public opinion that SHAs need to undertake where they propose to make arrangements with a water undertaker to increase the fluoride content of a water supply. The guidance also advises on the technical and legal issues SHAs need to address in conducting consultations and making arrangements with water undertakers