There has been much media coverage about whether or not fluoride should be added to drinking water. Bristol Water does not add - and currently has no plans to add - fluoride to the water it supplies.

In the past, local health authorities could ask water companies to fluoridate, but the companies could refuse. Legislation in 2008 gave the authorities the power to compel companies to fluoridate, after local public consultation. Fluoride is a health issue. We believe health professionals should make decisions about public health measures, not water companies.

*The water we supply naturally contains between 0.1 and 0.2 mg/l (parts per million) of fluoride. The maximum concentration of fluoride allowed in the water is 1.5 mg/l; there is no low limit.

Further information about fluoridation can be obtained from the local Health Protection Unit, King Square House, King Square, Bristol BS2 8EE or from the DWI (Drinking Water Inspectorate), 55 Whitehall, London SW1A 2EY (www.dwi.gov.uk)