Action on Mobile Phone Masts

8.10.05am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 7th Apr 2005

The positioning of mobile phone masts has caused controversy across the country as masts have been put up close to schools, hospitals and residential areas.

Did you know?

The District Council does not currently have any powers to block mast applications for masts below 15m and only has limited powers for those above.

Why?

When they were in government, the Conservatives did a deal with the phone companies to cut planning controls for masts.

"It is easier to get planning permission for a mast than it is for a porch. This is an alarming situation and needs to be addressed," said Guy Voizey, Liberal Democrat prospective parliamentary candidate for South Thanet.

What are the Liberal Democrats doing about it?

Liberal Democrat MP Andrew Stunell has presented a bill to Parliament that aims to bring mobile phone masts under strict planning control and bring in the 'precautionary principle', giving extra safeguards for schools, homes, and medical facilities from the risk of excessive radiation.