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To: Jane Phillips
Chair, National Association of Governors and Managers
2nd Floor SBQ1
29 Smallbrook
Queensway
Birmingham
B5 4HG
Date: 9 April 2004
Dear Jane
At our meeting on 23 March I promised to write to you and Neil Davies about the query about Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) masts raised by a NAGM member, Andy Davidson, whose letter also features in the April edition of NAGM news.
TETRA transmitters are used only by the Emergency Services, but they are covered by the same regulations as normal phone masts. Their siting is also currently treated in exactly the same way as all other types of phone masts.
I am aware that there have been some allegations that TETRA masts are of more risk than standard masts. The Stewart Report 2000 considered the siting of these base stations and the possible effects on children's health. The Government's advice on the siting of base stations in or near schools is based on the report's recommendations. Although the report saw no current health risk on radio masts, it advised a cautionary approach because radio frequency exposures, even those at acceptable levels, had biological effects and because children absorbed more energy than adults did. The Stewart report also advised that young people's use of mobile phones should be limited to essential purposes only, and that calls should be short.
The Stewart report was updated as recently as three months ago as a precautionary measure but I understand that no new evidence was found and the recommendations of the initial report were confirmed.
Governors will be interested to know that phone masts are not prohibited on or near school premises. However, the beam of greatest intensity should not be permitted to fall on a school's grounds or buildings without permission from the school and parents. From 2001, public consultations requirements have applied to all masts, including those 15 metres and shorter. School governors and local people must be consulted before an application to erect mast is submitted. We also believe that it is good practice for schools to consult parents. The Local Planning Authority (LPA) must also consult the local schools when the application has been received.
This Department carries advice on phone masts at TeacherNet and this website has links to other relevant sites which governors can access for more detailed information.
Yours
David Milliband
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