Consultation
3.—(1) In order to consult and ascertain opinion before taking any step concerning fluoridation arrangements that falls within section 89(2) of the Act, a Strategic Health Authority shall—
(a)publish details of the step they propose to take, and the manner in which individuals who would be affected by it and bodies with an interest can make representations regarding the proposal—
(i)in one or more newspapers circulating within the area to which the arrangements relate and
(ii)in such other media accessible within that area as the Authority consider appropriate for the purpose of bringing the proposal to the attention of individuals affected and bodies with an interest;
(b)give notice of the proposal to every local authority whose area falls wholly or partly within the area to which the arrangements relate.
(2) The details published under paragraph (1)(a) shall include—
(a)the nature of the step the Authority propose to take;
(b)the reasons for the proposal;
(c)the area affected by the proposal, and
(d)the period, being a period of not less than 3 months from the date on which the details are first published, within which representations can be made to the Authority.