'Protect our traditional TV channels'

Complex...media minister Ms Peacock

- By Jonathan Walker Whitehall Editor

CAMPAIGNERS have demanded the Government protect traditional television channels as ministers said signals could be turned off in 2034.

Media minister Stephanie Peacock warned digital terrestrial TV, known as Freeview, was becoming increasingly unaffordable as more people switched to internet services.

But she insisted no decision had been made about ending broadcasts.

Dennis Reed, of campaign group Silver Voices, said: “Nothing less than the continuance of Freeview and public broadcasting through aerials will be acceptable.