A LONG-STANDING debate on fluoridation has been re-kindled in Bolton after a new Government report called for more research into its large-scale use.

A long-awaited study was published by the Medical Research Council which called for more research into fluoridation and its possible connection with cancer.

The report was eagerly awaited by all groups, both for and against fluoridation. Proposals to add the substance to Bolton's water supply are being considered by health chiefs in the town.

Cllr Bob Ronson, from Horwich, who has been a major campaigner against adding fluoride to the town's water supply, said: "Bolton has a long history of being against fluoridation. We have found out that only 15 per cent of children will even benefit from fluoridation. I am dead against it. There needs to be more research done."

The report says much of the evidence supporting the benefits of fluoride comes from research carried out decades ago.

Experts have called for new studies to look at a person's individual exposure to fluoride, and to work out if people can absorb fluoride from other natural ways.

The report also wants studies to look at the differences between hard and soft water, and the extent of teeth discolouring because of fluoride over-use, called fluorosis.

The Medical Research Council experts have also called for an investigation into whether fluoride affects people suffering from hip fractures.

They also recommended an "updated analysis of the data on fluoridation and cancer rates, and suggest that new studies on the cause of bone cancer could easily include an assessment of exposure to fluoride".

Dr Paul Harrison, Director of the MRC Institute for Environment and Health, said: "There's no reason to think that water fluoridation is responsible for any adverse health effects.

"But there is a lack of research on some important aspects, which is why we are highlighting the need for more research."

Bolton is the only town in the country to have held a referendum, with local people overwhelmingly voting against fluoride in 1992.

But health leaders say it is the most effective way to reach children with tooth decay.

Public Health Minister Hazel Blears said the Government would now take steps to research the absorption of fluoride, as recommended by the MRC.