THE 60-strong membership of North Duffield Women's Institute is pleased that the Evening Press is giving coverage to the Government's proposals for the fluoridation of the public water supply. ('Fluoride battle boost', February 3)

To use tap water to administer a substance designed to alter our state of health, thus denying our right to refuse medication or treatment, is unethical.

From a health perspective, fluoridation does not spectacularly reduce dental cavities, but it is likely to cause dental fluorosis in 48 per cent of the population, severe enough to be of concern to 12.5 per cent of citizens according to the Government-commissioned York Review.

This body recommended more research into potential adverse effects other than fluorosis, but none is being undertaken.

Fluoride is highly toxic, and it is not known how much we already ingest from other sources.

Fluoridation schemes use hexafluorosilicic acid, which also contains traces of human carcinogens, including arsenic, lead, cadmium and mercury.

It is the waste product of industries such as the phosphate fertiliser industry.

If, like us, other readers do not want their water fluoridated they should write now to their MP, water company, strategic health authority, local councils and newspapers.

Mrs E Hessey,

North Duffield Women's Institute,

Prospect House,

Main Street,

Skipwith, Selby.

Updated: 10:55 Wednesday, March 17, 2004