News

January 19, 2021

Statement: 5G Networks Backed Up By Decades of Research

5G is a game-changing technology, both for individual mobile phone users and the wider societal benefits it will enable. However, we appreciate that with the introduction of any new technology, questions, and in some cases, concerns will be raised.

For decades, extensive scientific research has been carried out to assess whether mobile phones or network signals, including 5G, could pose a health risk to humans. The strong consensus of expert groups and public health agencies, such as the WHO and Public Health England, is that no health risks have been established from exposure to the low-level radio signals used for mobile communications. The international guidelines were updated in March 2020 to reflect the most recent research and also the arrival of 5G. Therefore, any calls to delay or postpone the rollout of 5G are not supported by the extensive evidence available.

We urge people to check the facts and understand the thorough scientific guidance that has helped govern mobile technology for many years as, unfortunately, wilder accusations have also been made, which have had real-world consequences. We have seen arson attacks on infrastructure and masts, and contractors being harassed on the streets during a global pandemic when mobile connectivity is being relied on more than ever.

We, therefore, strongly disagree with the conclusions drawn by Professor John William Frank to postpone or pause 5G rollout.

Hamish MacLeod, Director at Mobile UK, said:

“Mobile networks, and more recently 5G, have benefited from decades of research assessing the risk to human health. All operators adhere to strict guidelines that govern mobile radio signals, including recent updates to cover 5G, to ensure public safety. Therefore any calls for the delay or postponement of the rollout of 5G are without merit. This is all the more concerning at a time when mobile connectivity has never been more important.”

About Building Mobile Britain

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Building Mobile Britain is a campaign created by Mobile UK seeking to work with national and local government, as well as interested industry groups to overcome the challenges we face with expanding the existing mobile networks, while also developing innovative services for customers.

See here for further information - or #BuildingMobileBritain

Media Contacts

Gareth Elliott
Head of Policy and Communications
Tel: 07887 911 076
Email: press@mobileuk.org

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