A cross-party group of Members of Parliament is urging the government to postpone plans to discontinue free-to-air terrestrial television access, advocating instead for a later switch-over date. The MPs are calling for a shift from a potential 2034 deadline to 2044 for moving to internet-only television services.
This plea arises from concerns that an early transition could cut off approximately five million households from current Freeview access, potentially compelling them to subscribe to costly broadband services. In a letter addressed to Digital Secretary Lisa Nandy, the lawmakers stated that individuals reliant on aerial television are often among the most vulnerable. This includes older individuals, families with limited budgets, people with disabilities, and those residing in rural, coastal, and island communities, as well as homes lacking reliable or affordable broadband.
"For them, terrestrial television is how they follow the news, watch sport, and stay part of national life," the MPs wrote, emphasizing the role of aerial TV in their connection to national discourse and events. The appeal comes as a recent poll suggests that public awareness of the impending terrestrial TV switch-off is low, with 69 percent of respondents having heard little or nothing about the change. Nearly two-thirds of those surveyed believe that online-only TV access would exclude those without the financial means, digital confidence, or internet connection. Furthermore, 71 percent agreed that their method of watching television should be a personal choice, not a government mandate.
Senior Labour MP Sarah Champion expressed support for extending free TV access for as long as possible, arguing it would prevent unwelcome expenses for constituents during a cost-of-living crisis. She urged for a decision that eases pressure on constituents rather than rushing the terrestrial television switch-off. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey echoed these sentiments, warning that a rapid transition to internet-only TV could isolate millions of older and vulnerable individuals for whom Freeview serves as a vital link to the outside world. He called on the government to commit to maintaining Freeview until 2044.
Last week, Nandy acknowledged that a 2034 switch-over would present challenges. A government spokesperson stated that no final decisions have been made and that views are being gathered from across the sector and the public. The spokesperson stressed the government's commitment to ensuring that "no-one is left behind" and that any future transition would only proceed once adequate safeguards, infrastructure, and support are in place to guarantee affordable and reliable television access for all.