WRITTEN QUESTION No. 3724/98 by David HALLAM to the Commission. Radiation from electromagnetic fields and its effect on public health
21. 7. 1999 EN Official Journal of the European Communities C 207/77 (1999/C 207/101) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3491/98 by Luigi Moretti (NI) to the Commission (25 November 1998) Subject: Presence of radio and television transmission towers in built-up areas Radio and television transmission towers are increasingly being erected in the vicinity of built-up areas, and sometimes even in town centres. In view of the fact that the electromagnetic waves produced by these towers constitute a threat to public health, which is reflected in the growing incidence of health problems such as deafness, sleeping disorders, leukemia, etc: 1. Does the Commission intend to make it clearer that such towers located in built-up areas are potentially dangerous? 2. Does it intend to consider drafting a proposal for a regulation laying down a safe distance for such towers from houses and, in particular, from schools and hospitals? (1999/C 207/102) 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 telecommunica- tion 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. (1999/C 207/103) WRITTEN QUESTION E-3492/98 by Luigi Moretti (NI) to the Commission (25 November 1998) Subject: Pollution of surface water The drainage systems in built-up areas are often not designed to convey surface water, or water from recent rainfall, to water treatment plants. As a result, these waters flow into rivers, streams and lakes