MOBILE PHONE MASTS

Early day motion 67, tabled 17 May 2005 by Caroline Spelman (Conservative). Signed by 120 members.

That this House notes that industry sources have recently indicated that 3G technology will require a substantial increase in the number of mobile phone masts, with as many as four times the present number, suggesting up to 200 more masts in every constituency; believes that the current planning process in England is inadequate, failing to consider local, environmental and safety concerns; observes that the Government is reviewing planning regulations for masts and that tougher protection is already in place in Scotland and Northern Ireland; and calls on the Government to introduce full planning permission for all masts, including Network Rail and TETRA masts, and to allow health concerns to be taken into account near homes, schools and hospitals.

Signatures by party: Conservative 83, Liberal Democrat 19, Labour 16, DUP 1, UUP 1.