Three-quarters of the public want to keep terrestrial television, according to a new report. The Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA) called on the Government not to switch off the free TV service.
The charity’s research comes as the Government is looking at whether to continue traditional TV beyond 2034 or move to online streaming only. The report found that 73% believe the service should be protected beyond that date, while more than two-thirds are unaware it is under threat.
Elizabeth Anderson, CEO of the DPA, said: “As our new report demonstrates, for the millions of people living in or at risk of digital poverty, free-to-air terrestrial TV is a lifeline.
“It reaches over 98% of homes across the UK, with no need for a high-speed fixed broadband subscription or the latest smart tech.
“Terrestrial TV underpins our social resilience by ensuring we can all stay connected, regardless of our economic means or digital skill level.
“Its long-term future should be guaranteed by ministers and the threat of its removal must never be used as a way of coercing vulnerable people into taking on new financial burdens simply to watch TV.
“Universal, free-to-air terrestrial TV is a priceless asset which we lose at our peril.”
Some 96% of people trust the information they receive on terrestrial TV, while 75% are it helps reduce loneliness.
Social cohesion academic Professor Ted Cantle said: “Terrestrial TV remains one of the few truly universal services, creating ties that bind us and cement our nation’s cohesion.
“Despite our differences, we are united when we gather with our families whether it is to cheer for our athletes at the Olympics, or to tune in to vital government updates that impact all of our lives.
“These shared moments create a sense of unity, bridging divides across regions, income levels, and generations.”
Dr Gregory Asmolov, Lecturer in Global Digital Politics at King’s College London, added:
“Reliable communication during a crisis is essential not only to keep affected communities informed and alerted but also to ensure efficient community mobilisation. Terrestrial TV plays a vital role in strengthening the resilience of crisis communications.”
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology has been contacted for comment.