Firstly the predictable apologies for leaving it so long but as least we have a number of new developments to report.

You may have a distant recall that Mary and I had hoped last year that we could put up a monthly action and info on the website. Realistically this probably isn't going to happen unless someone would be prepared to take on keeping the site updated. Julian kindly designed it but would prefer that someone else kept the content moving. If you prefer behind the scenes work maybe this could be the role for you? You don't need to be a 'computer buff' - if you can use Microsoft Word you won't find it difficult.

The first 'consultation' under the 2004 legislation (designed to extend water fluoridation throughout the country) has now been completed in Southampton. Although 72% of the 10,000 people who responded opposed the introduction of fluoride into their water the local PCT decided they would continue with their proposed action . Watched by many threatened areas as a test case we hope that other PCT's have taken on board the determination of the Hampshire people to resist. If you want more details of their fight visit their website www.hampshireagainstfluoridation.org.

Another site which gives encouragement is UK councils against Fluoridation. Liz Vaughan and Doug Cross have been doing some sterling work on many fronts, the most recent being the 2005 European Court ruling that any food / drink that may have a medicinal function must be regulated as a medicine. This should include fluoridated water which would mean it may not be used in processing any foods including that sold in cafes and other retail outlets without a medicinal licence. This has huge implications for our area.

We have communicated the above to Allerdale's Environmental Health officer and local trading Standards. We are now awaiting a response.

Health Authorities have consistently refused to acknowledge that adding fluoride to water to affect teeth is medication. To do so would have meant that they would have had to undertake extensive research and testing . They are fully aware that the by-product of the fertiliser industry that they currently use in West Cumbria's water has not and will not be approved for human consumption.

It may well be that all ethical, scientific and right of choice arguments will continue to cut no ice with this government (or possibly a Conservative one.) With Andy Burnham., the major proponent of water fluoridation, recently and sadly installed at the Dept of Health, the future looks bleak so the possibility of European legislation undermining water fluoridation is very welcome.

Meanwhile on the local front Professor John Ashton has recently stated in the local media that he condemns a 'nanny state' approach and urges that communities should have choice over health issues. He made no mention of his recent moves to try to extend water fluoridation throughout Cumbria or the continual denial of choice to those currently fluoridated on the West Coast. Please do communicate with Professor Ashton on this issue. Email: john.ashton@cumbriapct.nhs.uk. Cumbria PCT, 8 Tynefield Drive, Penrith CA11 8JA.

That's all for now. If you would like to get in touch about any issues raised in the newsletter or on the site generally, the contact details are in Contacts.