§ Mr. ChaytorTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if his Department's research programme into the effects on health of mobile phone technology has been established. [2400]
§ Yvette CooperThe Stewart report on mobile phones and health made a recommendation that a substantial research programme should be set up under the aegis of a demonstrably independent panel and financed by the mobile phone companies and the public sector. This programme, jointly funded by Government and industry, has now been set up under the direction of an independent programme management committee. The first call for proposals was issued at a scientific workshop held in February. The committee is currently assessing a range of research proposals, the first group of which is expected to start in October this year. Details can be found on the Department's website at www.doh.gov.uk/mobilephones.