Vodafone's plans to have a European wide 3G network could take a knock from the Italian government, which has said that new mast development could be illegal. This could leave Vodafone-controlled Omnitel Pronto unable to offer full coverage for third-generation services in Italy.
The Italian government has issued the warning after health concerns were raised over the electromagnetic emissions from phone masts, for which Italy has the lowest legal levels.
Vodafone paid £1.6bn for a 15-year licence, but may be able to ask for a partial refund.
