TV signal fear over claim viewers back switch-off

FEARS that ministers are planning to pull the plug on traditional television broadcasts increased after the Government slipped out a report suggesting viewers backed the idea.

- Jonathan Walker

Campaigners say ending digital terrestrial television services received through an aerial would leave millions unable to watch their favourite shows, with the elderly most affected.

But ministers have published research claiming many viewers are “unconcerned” about a potential switch-off, which would mean receiving TV shows through the internet instead.

However, just 100 people were polled on the issue and only 27 of them were aged over 65.

Wealthy

Current legislation means terrestrial TV is safe until 2034 but the Government is holding a consultation about whether to end it after that.