Monday 26th April 2021

(3 years ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Bethell Portrait Lord Bethell (Con)
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My Lords, I understand that considerable efforts have gone into ensuring that folic acid is put into flours of all kinds, and I pay tribute to the industry for trying to deliver a comprehensive service. I am happy to write to the noble Baroness to confirm that.

Lord McColl of Dulwich Portrait Lord McColl of Dulwich (Con)
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My Lords, as fluoride has been added to drinking water to reduce dental caries, surely the Minister agrees that preventing spina bifida is more important, as a former colleague of mine, Professor Richard Smithells, pointed out nearly 60 years ago. Is it not time to act?

Lord Bethell Portrait Lord Bethell (Con)
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My Lords, I take on board the point that it is time to act. That is why we are working hard on the matter. As I said, I hope to return to the House on this soon.