91998E3724

WRITTEN QUESTION P-3724/98

by David Hallam (PSE) to the Commission

(25 November 1998)

Subject: Radiation from electromagnetic fields and its effect on public health

Is the Commission aware of any research into the effects of electromagnetic fields (created by telecommunication masts and overhead electricity wires) on human health or that of livestock grazing around these fields? If no research has been carried out, would the Commission consider undertaking research into the effects on public health of radiation from electromagnetic fields? If public health is found to be threatened in some way, would the Commission consider introducing legislation to enable local, regional or national authorities to regulate proposals to erect telecommunications masts?

Joint answer

to Written Questions E-3491/98 and P-3724/98 given by Mr Flynn on behalf of the Commission

(11 January 1999)

In June 1998 the Commission presented a proposal for a Council recommendation on the limitation of exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields(1). It takes account of the scientific opinion of the International commission on non-ionising radiation, supported by the Commission's scientific steering committee. This text is currently being discussed by the Council, which has also transmitted the text for opinion to the Parliament.

The results of current and future research in this area will be considered in the context of the reporting procedure provided in this text.

(1) COM(98) 268 final.