Stunell meets top power lines medical advisor to discuss overhead lines in Offerton Green Estate

10.59.00am GMT Fri 4th Nov 2005

This week, Hazel Grove MP, Andrew Stunell met Dr John Swanson, the leading UK expert on the medical impact of overhead power lines, to discuss the concerns of Offerton Green residents about the high voltage power lines that pass through the estate.

Andrew Stunell MP said:

"Local residents are concerned that children living close to high voltage overhead power lines might have an increased risk of developing childhood leukaemia.

"There have been some worrying recent reports, such as the recent Draper Report, that suggested that children born close to power lines maybe at an increased risk of developing this serious disease.

"It was very clear from my meeting with Dr Swanson, who is a top medical advisor to the power industry, that more research into the medical effects of these lines is urgently needed."

The Department of Health's "Sage Report" is due out next year, and the Energy Networks Association has promised to keep Mr Stunell updated on its results.

Mr Stunell added, "Until we know just what the risks really are there should be a moratorium on new building alongside power lines like those on Offerton Green." ENDS