NZ - Fluoride inquiry part of Labour's health plans

Fluoride inquiry part of Labour's health plans
By Martin Johnston
Labour has promised to hold an inquiry into the divisive issue of adding fluoride to drinking water supplies to prevent tooth decay.
The Ministry of Health, serving both Labour and National administrations, has long advocated fluoridation as a "safe, effective and affordable way to prevent and reduce tooth decay across the whole population".
More than half of New Zealanders live in areas of fluoridated water supplies, but it is up to local councils to decide whether to add the chemical, and some are turning against the practice. Last month, the New Plymouth District Council voted to cease fluoridation.
In its health policy, released yesterday, the Labour Party said that in government it would "hold an independent inquiry into the fluoridation of drinking water, with a view to developing a national policy on fluoridation as a national dental health measure".
Health spokesman Grant Robertson said he personally supported fluoridation.
Asked if the intention to write a national policy indicated the possibility of mandatory fluoridation, he said, "I'm not going to pre-judge that."
Greens health spokeswoman Sue Kedgley said her party supported "alternatives to mass-medication of water" - dental hygiene and reducing high-sugar foods and drinks - and local decision-making on fluoridation.
"It shouldn't be imposed on all New Zealanders through some national standard."