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Campaigners are warning that millions of people who rely on conventional TV services risk losing out or being forced to spend more on high speed fixed broadband connections
Keir Starmer has been urged to protect terrestrial TV amid fears it could be axed.
Ministers are examining whether to continue with Freeview beyond the mid 2030s or whether to push all TV to online streaming.
Campaigners are warning that millions of people who rely on conventional TV services risk losing out or being forced to take out high speed fixed broadband connections they can’t afford.
Research by the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) found 96% of people trust the information they receive on terrestrial TV, while 90% say it helps those who can’t afford expensive monthly bills to access information and entertainment .
Some 75% agree that terrestrial TV helps reduce loneliness and 70% feel reassured knowing it’s there as a backup.
It found 73% believe that terrestrial TV should be protected well beyond 2035.
The DPA has written to the Prime Minister to call for the vital service to be protected.
DPA Chief Executive Elizabeth Anderson said: “The decision facing ministers will have far-reaching implications for millions of viewers, and it is vital that no one is left isolated from television due to cost or broadband connectivity.”
She added: “DTT provides the UK with crucial social resilience, ensuring we can all stay connected. However, only a third of the public realise it is at risk.
“We urge you to act to protect this crucial service for the millions of people who rely on it, before it is too late.”
A spokesperson for the Department for Culture Media and Sport said: “We are committed to ensuring that no-one is left behind as TV viewing increasingly moves to online platforms.
“That is why the government is currently working with the TV industry and other key players in the sector on a long-term sustainable approach to TV distribution in the UK for years to come.
“This will include a decision on whether to further extend the current commitment to keep Freeview on air until at least 2034.”