MPs urge tougher rules for mobile masts

The system for allowing the putting up of mobile phone masts has been attacked by a group of MPs as being too arbitrary.

The system for allowing the putting up of mobile phone masts has been attacked by a group of MPs as being too arbitrary.

The UK Parliament's Trade and Industry Select Committee, which has no formal power over Government policy, complained that the current system rode roughshod over health concerns.

"Urgent steps must be taken to introduce greater certainty and clarity so that the new regime is in place by the end of May 2001, a year after publication of the Stewart Report," the Committee said.

Last year, a Government-sponsored scientific inquiry, led by Sir William Stewart, urged tougher rules for transmitter masts as a precaution against potential health risks from radiation.

Parents across the country have voiced concern about masts near schools and public play areas, and some councils have already banned masts being erected on their land.

Stewart told the Committee that, while there was no evidence yet to suggest a health risk to the whole population, following the 1990s mad cow disease crisis "never again will any scientific committee say that there is no risk".

"Unless it is clear that the planning system has a robust way of dealing with health fears expressed by people, the results of the changes will be yet more frustration," the MPs said.

Also published in Network News