PHIL WILLIS M.P. HARROGATE AND KNARESBOROUGH

HOUSE OF COMMONS
LONDON SWIA OAA
TEL: 020 7219 5709
FAX: 020 7219 0971
28 December 2000

You will know that I have a particular interest in the provision of telecommunication facilities and in particular the siting of telecommunication masts. I continue to campaign for their limitation and have recently co-sponsored an Early Day Motion in the House specifically aimed at the way Orange are taking a cavalier attitude towards the environment and health issues.

 There is an added problem with the mast at the Church of the Holy Trinity, Knaresborough. Under existing church law, the church itself has power over planning issues and therefore can, I believe, site masts within the spires without having any recourse to the overall planning system. I am checking out the legality of this issue because in effect it could drive a coach and horses through any attempts we are making in Parliament to take the issues of health seriously with regard to telecommunications masts.

 Please rest assured that you have my support in this issue. I am most anxious that the health risks of mobile phones and base stations are properly examined before we go helter-skelter into further expansion of provision to meet the next generation of mobile phones and telecommunications

 CONSTITUENCY OFFICE: (FOR CORRESPONDENCE)ASHDOWN HOUSE, 75 STATION PARADE, HARROGATE HGI 1ST.TEL: 01423 528888 FAX: 01423 505700