HC Deb 19 November 1970 vol 806 cc1412-3
18. Mr. John Hall

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if the Medical Research Council's Non-ionising Radiation Committee has completed its consideration of the effects of microwave radiation, including radiation from microwave ovens.

Mrs. Thatcher

Yes, Sir. The Committee's recommendations have been accepted by the Medical Research Council and arrangements are being made for their publication.

Mr. Hall

Do the recommendations ensure that proper safety precautions are taken to prevent the emission of harmful radiation from microwave ovens, which are increasingly used in this country?

Mrs. Thatcher

The Committee has had the safety of microwave ovens under review, but it does not recommend any change which would affect the use of microwave ovens operating within frequencies which are internationally permitted for heating equipment. But I will send my hon. Friend a copy of the recommendations.