A statement on the report on telecommunications development by the Scottish Parliament's Transport and Environment Committee

29 March 2000

The UK telecommunications industry notes the report into telecommunications development published today by the Scottish Parliament's Transport and Environment Committee.

In doing so, the industry points out that the matters covered by the report have been the subject of a comprehensive inquiry by an independent expert group chaired by Professor Sir William Stewart FRS FRSE. The group's report is expected to be presented to the Minister for Public Health and published in May 2000.

The industry notes the recommendations made by the Transport and Environment Committee, awaits with interest the response of the Scottish Parliament plenary, and looks forward to working closely with the Scottish Executive and other stakeholders on taking this issue forward.

The industry understands public concerns regarding telecommunications development, and is committed to addressing these concerns.

This is why it is boosting dialogue with local government and local communities on providing improved services, making use of the latest in compact mobile phone base station design, and supporting new research into radio waves.