§ Mr. Malcolm BruceTo ask the Secretary of State for Energy what research has been, and is being, undertaken to investigate the possible detrimental effects to health of overhead electricity power lines, specifically the alleged link between electromagnetism and childhood cancer; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerThe Central Electricity Generating Board has been carrying out research into the health effects of power frequency electromagnetic fields produced by overhead lines since the late 1970s.
Independent work has also been carried out under contract at hospitals and universities in the United Kingdom and has included a detailed case/control study to investigate any possible links with childhood cancer. So far, the results have revealed no association between childhood cancers and overhead power lines. Research is continuing.