5 March 2001
Media Statement on the NRPB (National Radiological Protection Board) Report Concerning Childhood Cancer and Powerlines
There is speculation today that a British Government-backed study by Sir
Richard Doll, re-examining previous research, shows children who live near
electricity pylons are more likely to develop leukaemia.
The CEO of ARPANSA, Dr John Loy, wishes to make the following statement about the report expected from the UK sometime this week:
“When the NRPB [National Radiological Protection Board] report is issued, ARPANSA will immediately examine its findings and make advice on them available to both the Commonwealth Government and the general public”.
“ARPANSA will then refer the report to the Radiation Health and Safety Advisory Council to formally consider the health and safety implications”.
Details on the function and membership of the Radiation Health and Safety Advisory Council can be seen on ARPANSA's web site.
The NRPB (National Radiation Protcetion Board - UK) Advisory Group on Non-ionising Radiation (AGNIR) has released their report on Power Frequency Electromagnetic Fields and the Risk of Cancer.
ENDS