The Government’s consultation on whether to switch off Freeview in favour of online-only TV by 2034 ends Monday night, with opponents saying that renewed fears of a Russian cyber attack could force ministers to delay these plans.
Ministers say there is a compelling case for ending broadcasts over digital terrestrial aerials by 2034, citing the growing number of households with internet access. But they accept that a more cautious timeline, of a slower transition to TV via internet streaming by 2044, could be required.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy is set to make a decision later this year.
Shorts
Labour MP Luke Akehurst, who opposes the 2034 plan, told The i Paper: “This is the final say for campaigners, MPs and the public to respond to the Government’s consultation and urge them to save free terrestrial television.”
