Britain is in a mess over mobile phone masts. Some need planning permission and some don't. No one can have access to a map of where they all there.

Councils, including some in Sussex, have the right to ban masts on their own lands but don't have much leeway to refuse permission for masts on other sites even when there are legitimate concerns about them.

While mobile phones and masts undoubtedly cause some radiation, no one is prepared to say officially whether this means masts should be a certain distance away from homes or schools.

The Government needs to give a lead on this issue which has become urgent as the demand for mobile phones continues to be great.

We need a mast map, proper health guidance and planning permission for each new installation so that councils can give clear decisions on each application after full public consultation.