MP David Chaytor has welcomed an inquiry into the siting of mobile-phone masts near schools.

But he says the Government should go even further and stop the installation of such masts pending more information about the potential health effects.

Mr Chaytor has been worried about the possible risks since the public outcry some months ago about the siting of an Orange mast opposite Guardian Angels RC Primary School in Bury.

"Too little is known about the long-term health risks of mobile-phone masts," he said.

"I have been saying for months that, until we get more research, we must adopt a much more cautious approach to the siting of masts, particularly near schools, hospitals and residential areas."

Education Secretary David Blunkett is calling on the National Radiological Protection Board to do more research into the potential health risks to schoolchildren. "We already know that standing close to a mast leads to the risk of absorbing radio waves and that touching metal objects near transmitters can lead to burns," said the MP for Bury North.

"But some research findings seem to suggest that masts could lead to short-term memory loss and might cause cancers or infertility. The need for more research is all too obvious."

Mr Chaytor also welcomed Mr Blunkett's call for updated health and safety information leaflets for parents and teachers.

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