Local MP Strikes it Lucky in Bill Ballot

12.00.00am GMT Wed 12th Jan 2005

Lucky local MP, Andrew Stunell has once again struck gold in the annual ballot of MPs to get the chance to battle it out for of an Act of Parliament in their name.

Andrew Stunell said:

"This is the second time in a row that I have been given the opportunity to champion a cause that might make a difference to people's lives. This time I've decided to take forward the Telecommunication Masts Planning Control Bill. If passed it will stop companies from putting up mobile phone masts without consulting local communities and gaining planning approval from the Local Authority."

Over 180 mobile phone masts have already been erected in Stockport and more than 30 more will be erected in the next three years. Many have provoked fierce protests from residents concerned about amenity and health issues. Mr Stunell's Bill would bring in the so-called 'precautionary principle', giving planners more powers to refuse mast applications.

Mr Stunell added:

"The Government have backed out of repeated promises to change the planning laws. This Bill is long overdue and has cross-party support. It is a chance to make the Government take notice of the concerns of people all over the country."

The Bill would give extra protection to schools, medical facilities and homes from high radiation levels from all telecommunication masts. It comes in the same week as a second report from Sir William Stewart, a former senior government scientific advisor, was published, calling for more caution in the use of mobile phones especially by young children.

ENDS