Neil O'Brien Conservative MP response
After writing to our local MP Neil O'Brien to raise concerns this was the response received:
Hello Andrew,
Thank you for contacting me about 5G.
I believe it is vital that the UK has the digital infrastructure it needs to compete and grow in the modern economy. I support plans to make the UK a world leader in 5G, thereby unlocking growth, innovation and potential across the country.
5G is the next generation of mobile internet connection and offers download speeds up to 100 times that of 4G, making mobile phones much faster and able to process ever larger amounts of data. In addition, it provides a successful platform for new technologies, such as autonomous vehicles, ‘smart’ devices and remote healthcare.
As part of the Wireless Infrastructure Strategy, the Government has set out its ambitions to blanket the country with the fastest, most reliable wireless coverage available – with an ambition for all populated areas to be covered by ‘standalone’ 5G (what some companies call 5G-plus) by 2030. It is extremely encouraging that 77 per cent of the population already has access to basic 5G from one provider.
I welcome the Government's announcement in April 2023 of an investment package worth almost £150 million, with up to £100 million to put the UK at the forefront of future research, and £40 million to boost 5G tech take-up. Specifically, this £40 million 5G innovation fund will promote investment and adoption of 5G by businesses and public services, helping them unlock opportunities to use advanced wireless connectivity, generating value, innovation and growth at a local level.
I am also glad that the Government is supporting the industry roll out 5G by cutting red tape to allow for a speedier deployment of 4G and 5G. A large number of smaller ‘cell sites’ are required to ensure seamless coverage and meet increased demand. The changes will make it easier for telecom providers to access public buildings, streetlights, bus shelters and traffic lights as ’cell sites’. It is encouraging that eight winning projects will pilot new digital software across the UK to more easily identify ideal ‘cell site’ locations, receiving a share of the £4 million Digital Connectivity Infrastructure Accelerator fund.
Additionally, I support the further reform to planning laws which will mean fewer masts will be needed to be constructed to improve coverage by allowing telecom firms to upgrade existing infrastructure, helping to increase the speed of the roll out. New and existing masts will now be permitted to be up to five metres taller and two meters wider than current rules permit to boost the range of masts, allow for the extra equipment needed for faster networks and make it easier for operators to share infrastructure. These changes to planning laws will come into force as soon as possible through legislation, with new tough legal duties for operators to minimise the visual impact of network equipment, particularly in protected areas such as national parks, conservation areas, world heritage sites and areas of outstanding natural beauty.
In order to provide the strongest mobile signal to as wide an area as possible, ensuring there aren’t too many neighbouring buildings, trees or other geographical features in the way blocking a mast’s signal, only a limited number of sites are realistic options for 5G masts. Telecoms firms can often find it difficult and time consuming to acquire the information needed to verify a structure is suitable for hosting network equipment - such as its location, physical dimensions, proximity to the street or access to a power source - which is slowing down the pace of deployment.
Furthermore, masts need their own power and “backhaul” (data connections to the rest of the network). This means that engineers must locate sites that best meet the technical, logistical and economic requirements for hosting a mast. As you might be aware, planning issues are determined by the local council, in this case Oadby & Wigston Borough Council. If you not already done so, I always recommend constituents submitting comments on the application to the local Council.
I am glad that the Government will invest in piloting the latest innovations in digital asset management platforms. This software will enable local councils to more easily share data mobile companies need to accelerate their roll out plans and deliver the revolutionary benefits of 4G and 5G to people and businesses.
I note your concerns regarding health implications from 5G. We must be guided by independent public health advice on radio waves. This advice is clear that exposure to electromagnetic fields is not new and there is no credible evidence of an impact of 5G on public health. I understand that existing technical standards, which take into account international guidelines and research on non-ionizing radiation, are expected to be followed throughout the development of 5G products and networks. I am assured that as 5G continues to develop, the Government will work with the relevant public health bodies to monitor available evidence and take any necessary action.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Best wishes
Neil
Neil O'Brien OBE MP
House of Commons
London SW1A 0AA
http://www.neilobrien.org.uk/