‘Protect traditional telly for millions without broadband’
CAMPAIGNERS have urged ministers to help safeguard the future of traditional broadcast TV and radio until the 2040s.
They particularly want to protect access for low-income families and residents in areas without high-speed broadband.
The plea comes as the Government’s Media Bill returns to parliament in the House of Lords today.
Currently, TV transmitted through an aerial – used by 17 million people – is guaranteed only until the mid2030s. Most people will then have to watch via high-speed internet.
Vulnerable
The Broadcast 2040+ campaign is calling for peers to persuade ministers that the big “switch off” should be pushed back to at least the 2040s.
They say this will allow time for broadband coverage in all areas of the UK and give more certainty for vulnerable groups, the elderly and those in rural areas. Elizabeth Anderson, chief executive officer of the Digital Poverty Alliance, appealed to peers to grasp today’s debate as an opportunity to protect the UK’s creative industries, including the future of broadcast TV and radio services. She said: “With millions lacking the connectivity required to participate in a modern, digital economy, either due to affordability or location, now more than ever we must protect access to these services.
“They are vital platforms, enabling those in extreme digital poverty to access crucial public information, be entertained, and remain connected to loved ones and their broader community.
“As proud members of the Broadcast 2040+ coalition we are focused on protecting people who would be at risk of greater exclusion if online television became the only form of consumption.The principle of universality must be protected, and we urge peers to use today’s debate to back the campaign’s calls to safeguard their future until 2040 and beyond.”
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport has said that terrestrial TV and radio will remain accessible “for the foreseeable future” and vowed that “no one” should be left behind amid changing viewing habits.
A spokesman added that research on the future of TV, to inform longterm decisions on whether to extend the commitment to keep Freeview on air beyond 2034, is ongoing.