Campaigners in Wellington joined people from across the world at the weekend to demand an immediate halt to the use of 5G because of fears about its safety to public health and the environment.

The group spoke to shoppers about potential risks posed to humans, plant life and insects by the latest telecommunications frequencies and urged people to demand proper research.

Local resident Charlie Kay said: “5G is a toxic pollutant and a completely untested technology. Tens of thousands of peer reviewed studies show it causes biological harm and is a carcinogen.

“It impacts the unborn child, everybody’s immune system, the bees and other wildlife. When the government says it is safe they are unfortunately misleading you.”

He urged people to do their own research. Campaigners say this is the equivalent of asbestos and cigarette smoking for our times.

A group called Action against 5G is currently bringing a court case against the government over the safety of 5G.

The campaigners say they were shocked at the lack of understanding about the new technology among people they spoke to. Most did not know about the proposed ‘internet of things’ (IOT) or how this could relate to digital surveillance and lead to an infringement of basic freedoms.

The group says the technology is being sold to the public as a way to address climate change, but tech companies do not mention the ways in which it can be a major contributor to environmental damage.

While also opposing wireless proliferation, the campaigners say they support safe wired connections for most internet and telecommunications use and would like to see wireless technology reserved for emergencies and essential services.