SIR - In two separate stories you report on strong local opposition to telephone masts in the city; one in Warndon, the other in Lowesmoor.

Worcester Green Party supports local people in their opposition to these masts. We have major concerns regarding the effects of mobile phone mast radiation upon human health. In accordance with the precautionary principle, we believe these concerns should be taken seriously in the relevant planning decisions.

Network Rail has been allowed to put up their mast without even applying for planning permission, because, as your article says, they have a special agreement with the Government'. Under current legislation, permission is required only for masts above 15m in height. The Green Party believes that the erection of all mobile phone masts, regardless of height, should be subject to full planning permission regulations, so that local people can object, and local councillors can say yes or no. Permission should also be required to increase the power of existing masts.

Green Party policy is that where there is significant local opposition no new mast should be erected, and local authorities and other bodies should terminate existing licensing contracts entered into for the siting of masts.

In the light of the current uncertainty over the dangers of masts, contract licences and planning permission granted by local authorities for the siting of masts should be limited to specific time-frames. No long-term irreversible agreements should be entered into whilst such uncertainty about health risks exists.

CHRIS LENNARD, Malvern