§ Mrs. Curtis-ThomasTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) when the report arising from the Consultation Paper on Telecommunication Mast Development will be published; [148339]
(2) how many responses were received to the Consultation Paper on Telecommunication Mast Development; and if he will list the individuals and organisations which made submissions. [148338]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe consultation exercise seeking views on possible changes to the planning laws relating to mobile phone masts and associated guidance ended on 31 October 2000. The Department is currently analysing the 365 responses. We shall announce our conclusions as soon as possible. A list of individuals and organisations who responded to the consultation exercise have been placed in the Libraries of the House.
§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many mobile phone transmitter masts have been relocated owing to their proximity to a school in the last 12 months; and if he will make a statement. [148402]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe Department does not hold such information. However, the report of the Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones does not recommend that the erection of masts on or near schools should be prohibited, nor does it recommend that existing masts be removed or relocated. DfEE has issued information to local education authorities and schools on mobile phones and base stations.
528WThe Government recently announced that the Radiocommunications Agency will begin an audit of mobile phone base stations and masts to measure radiowave emissions. The audits have now commenced, and a continuing programme is planned to cover all schools with base stations that have asked to be included. The results of the audit will be published on the internet.