Labour MPs have warned that the Government's potential move to switch off Freeview and move to internet-only TV could cost the party crucial marginal seats at the next election. In an open letter to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, seen by The i Paper, 17 MPs from across the party express concern over the impact on vulnerable households.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is expected to approve a BBC-backed plan to shut down the Freeview service, which is used in 10 million homes. The move would remove access to over 70 standard channels and up to 15 HD channels, including BBC One, BBC Two, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5, via Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT).
The MPs argue that those most reliant on terrestrial TV are disproportionately older, female, on lower incomes, and in towns and coastal communities where Labour majorities are thinnest. They warn that requiring these households to take out a broadband contract they cannot afford would be seen as a charge, not a transition.
If a broadband subscription becomes necessary, the cost of television viewing could increase by £200 in broadband charges for some homes, according to one estimate. The MPs urge the Government to guarantee the future of terrestrial television beyond 2034, well into the 2040s.
A Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson said the Government is committed to ensuring no one is left behind as TV viewing moves online. They added that a decision on extending the current commitment to DTT beyond 2034 will be made as soon as possible, following public consultation on a range of options.
