Gary Kemp gives a list of ill effects allegedly caused by mobile phone masts (Letters, August 31).
However, the World Health Organisation's fact sheet on mobile communications, published in May, concluded: "Considering the very low exposure levels and research results collected to date, there is no convincing scientific evidence that weak RF signals from base stations and wireless networks cause adverse health effects."
This is in line with a report published in January 2005 by the National Radiological Protection Board, now part of the Health Protection Agency, which stated: "Within the UK there is a lack of hard information showing mobile phone systems are damaging to health. It is important to emphasise this crucial point."
The report went on to say measurements of radio wave emission levels from base stations "demonstrate there is no scientific basis for establishing minimal distances between base stations and areas of public occupancy" and "there are many sources of public exposure".
Ofcom has monitored radio wave emissions from mobile phone masts since 2000 and has undertaken more than 500 audits of base stations. The measurements from these audits show emissions levels from base stations are typically small fractions of the international health and safety exposure guidelines.
The highest reading was 279 times below the guidelines.
The specific Dutch study Mr Kemp referred to was repeated by other scientists in Switzerland and published in June this year. It found no adverse health effects.
As part of the £7.4 million independent scientific research programme in the UK, a study into base stations is being carried out by the University of Essex.
People living and working in the Brighton area expect to be able to use their mobile phones where and when they want but, as they will find in more rural settings, without a network of masts, their phones simply will not work.
- Stuart Eke, public affairs manager, Mobile Operators Association, Russell Square, London
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