§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Employment what representations his Department has had from the city of Manchester's planning officer with regard to the effects on public health of the extensive use of microwaves in telecommunications; what reply he is sending; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerI understand that the city of Manchester's planning officer has not made any such general representations. He has, however, consulted the Health and Safety Executive's local office about one proposed installation in Manchester, and has been given appropriate reassurance.
§ Mr. Alfred Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Employment (1) what advice he is giving local planning 159W authorities with regard to the effects on public health of the extensive use of microwaves in telecommunications; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what advice he is giving local planning authorities with regard to the health effects for maintenance workers of the extensive use of microwaves in telecommunications; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. GummerI do not see any need to issue general guidance to local planning authorities on these subjects. It is primarily for the Department of Trade and Industry, as the Department responsible for licensing microwave telecommunications, and the Health and Safety Executive, as the body responsible for enforcing the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, to ensure that the health of general public and of maintenance workers is safeguarded. However, it is open to any local planning authority to seek advice from the Health and Safety Executive on the health and safety aspects of any proposal to install such telecommunications facilities in its area, and such advice will be forthcoming.