Blackpool Council’s opposition leader has called for a public meeting to help parents make up their own minds over plans to add fluoride to school milk.

Coun Tony Williams says parents need to hear both sides of the argument before a decision is made on the issue.

It comes after the council’s Health and Wellbeing Board agreed last month to consult with schools with a view to introducing dental milk, which includes fluoride, for primary school age children.

Coun Williams said: “I believe that just adding Fluoride to school milk falls far short of the need to tackle the problem.

“Better school dental programs should also be introduced with an increase in school visits from NHS dentists and oral hygiene specialists.

“Most school children in Blackpool are now eating two breakfasts a day with the school serving including starch and syrup. Children should be allowed and encouraged to brush their teeth in school after every meal.”

Responding to Coun Williams at Wednesday’s full council meeting, coun Ivan Taylor, cabinet member for health, said: “The council has not yet decided whether this is a scheme it wants to introduce.

“The board discussed this and recommended it by an overwhelming majority.

“We will be testing the opinion of schools and anyone else that’s interested.”

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