County Council seeking views on 5G as part of spotlight review

People across Devon are being asked for their views on 5G, as Devon County Council launches a “call for evidence” on the technology.

The County Council’s Corporate Infrastructure and Regulatory Services Scrutiny Committee is investigating 5G as part of a spotlight review.

Although the County Council has no current plans to make use of 5G in its ICT and is not involved with planning applications for mobile infrastructure, it is running an investigation in response to local concern and wants to hear from people to help inform its findings.

An online questionnaire is now available, inviting members of the public to express their views and asking what evidence or information people feel the County Council should consider in reviewing the technology.

It also asks how informed people feel about the technology and if they feel enough awareness has been raised about the use of 5G.

Camilla de Bernhardt Lane, Devon County Council's Head of Scrutiny, said: "We want to hear from as many people as possible across Devon regarding 5G technology. The information shared will be used in our Councillor-led spotlight review. While Scrutiny can only make recommendations, this work is planned to help to inform Council policy on 5G technology. This is your opportunity to let our review know your thoughts and what you feel Devon County Council might do to address any concerns you have."

Anyone who fills in the questionnaire will have the opportunity to be invited to take part in a discussion with the scrutiny group at a later date. Feedback must be submitted by Monday 9 December.

For more information on scrutiny and how it works go to https://www.devon.gov.uk/democracy/committee-meetings/scrutiny-committees/