Freeview 'Switch-Off' Petition Nears 100,000 Signatures Amid Sky Internet TV Push
A petition warning that Freeview could be 'switched off' has gathered nearly 100,000 signatures, following Sky's publication of research calling for the government to move fully to internet-delivered TV in the 2030s. The groundswell of support reflects growing public concern over the potential axing of traditional terrestrial television services.
Sky's Call for Digital Transition Sparks Controversy
The controversy erupted after Sky published research urging the government to scrap conventional broadcasting and 'move fully to internet-delivered TV in the 2030s'. Sky's Group Chief Operating Officer Nick Herm argued that this transition is achievable and could help close the digital divide rather than deepen it.
He stated: 'This research shows that modern TV and social inclusion can go hand in hand. A full move to internet-delivered TV in the 2030s is achievable - and it can help close the digital divide rather than deepen it.'
Herm added: 'With most people already streaming, an investment from the Government in skills and affordable connectivity for the relatively small number of households who still need help to get online will have benefits far beyond TV, while saving hundreds of millions on maintaining legacy systems.'
Petition Highlights Vulnerable Viewers' Concerns
The Change.org petition explains that terrestrial television, received through an aerial and often known as Freeview, is under serious threat of being scrapped. Within months, the Government will decide whether to turn off terrestrial signals and rely solely on internet-based TV (IPTV) in the future.
This would mean that every household would be forced to take out an expensive fixed broadband contract if they wished to continue watching their favourite TV programmes. The petition warns that radio reception and signals for emergency services could also be put at risk.
Millions of older and disabled people, and those on low and modest incomes, would lose their essential access to TV to keep them in touch with the world and to prevent isolation and loneliness.
Personal Testimonies from Freeview Users
Lynette, an 80-year-old Kent resident, said: 'Free Terrestrial TV is essential for me - whether it's for entertainment, the news or even learning new things from magazine shows. I don't want to be choosing apps and making new accounts, I don't want a screen that pops up with the TV trying to work out what I want to watch.'
She added: 'I've tried watching television programmes online with family members, and they stop part way through with a whirling circle and then an error message appears. I tried a streaming service and didn't like it. It is time-consuming and irritating trying to work out where I want to be, to remember the sequence of clicks, with hieroglyphics instead of words.'
Lynette expressed concern that the government might decide to take away traditional TV from those who either don't like, can't afford, or can't use online versions.
Parliamentary Debate and Political Responses
The issue was recently highlighted during a parliamentary debate, where MPs stressed that the popular Freeview platform faces potential threats, calling on ministers to protect it for the 16 million households that depend on it. Freeview reaches 16 million homes nationwide, making it the main television platform for 40% of households with a TV and Britain's biggest television service.
During a Westminster Hall debate, MPs expressed serious concerns about the platform's future. They highlighted that the licences supporting terrestrial television are due to lapse in 2034, with the Government yet to pledge renewal, which could mean television would only be available through internet connections.
Tory MP David Mundell declared: 'Freeview is a universal service reaching 98.5% of the UK population, including those in remote and rural areas. It is available at no additional cost over and above the licence fee. This is a crucial point: people do not need to pay any additional monthly bills to watch terrestrial TV; all they need is a TV set and an aerial.'
He expressed concerns regarding the licences: 'Millions of people are relying exclusively on mobile for access to the internet. Indeed, data from Citizens Advice suggested that, in 2022 alone, up to 1 million people cancelled their broadband subscription because of the high cost of living. Despite being a widely used and, in my view, essential service, it is currently under threat of being switched off within a decade.'
Labour's Richard Quigley stated: 'Three quarters of people say that terrestrial TV has helped to reduce loneliness, and among those aged 65 and over the figure rises to 87%. Additionally, I worry that any decision to switch off terrestrial TV could further exacerbate the cost of living crisis and deepen existing inequalities in our communities.'
Government's Cautious Stance
In response, The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Stephanie Peacock recognised: 'The way we watch TV is changing rapidly. Over the past decade, we have seen significant shifts in how content is delivered and consumed. Increasing numbers of viewers are moving to internet-based platforms, both for on demand content and, increasingly, for live programming.'
She continued: 'DTT is guaranteed until at least 2034. Before making any decisions, we will carefully consider the challenges for public service broadcasters and, importantly, the impact on loyal daily viewers, especially those who rely on digital terrestrial services.'
Peacock acknowledged that particular 'groups of people who are more likely to be digitally excluded' exist. She noted they are often 'older, living in rural areas, more likely to be on lower incomes living alone, or they may have a disability. Those are the people who rely most on television, not just for news and entertainment, but for connection and companionship.'
However, she fell short of securing terrestrial television's future, highlighting that the government was working alongside broadcasters and different organisations. She declared: 'We also know this is not an easy decision. The choices ahead are complex and must be guided by evidence, and that is why we are taking the time to get them right, drawing on data, research and the views of people across the sector and across the country.'
