SOME weeks ago we learned that a vote in Parliament had found two of our members in favour of adding fluoride to our water supply and one against.

Of the two, one was for years a member of Bolton Council and thus well aware of the overwhelming opposition. The other, a relative newcomer, may not have appreciated Bolton's opposition, which might have tempered her zealousness.

During these weeks, your column has carried many letters, the great majority being opposed to fluoride, from many well-informed correspondents.

We are assured that health authorities, in being granted the power, will only require the water companies to add fluoride after consultation. Consultation by whom and of whom and by what method?

If the zealots intend to be truly democratic, there is only one method acceptable, which is to repeat the method of 1968 which produced some 68,000 against and some 24,000 in favour.

How was this poll conducted? I can tell you, because I had a part in the process. Bolton's referendum coincided with the issue of Form A for electoral registration and the total vote exceeded the percentage poll produced in many General Elections.

Over the years, opposition has continued to be demonstrated. In the late '70s, a Consortium of North-west authorities opposed fluoride; Bolton's opposition was again shown in a mini-poll, and with continued opposition in your columns. In the late '80s, a debate took place in Bolton's Council, the result being overwhelming opposition by all parties.

What more evidence can our Members for Bolton South and West wish?

Let authorities throughout the country follow Bolton's 1968 example.

Brian H Tetlow

Oaks Lane

Bradshaw