Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment has been made of the potential impact of a 2034 Digital Terrestrial Television switch-off on older and disabled viewers and people living in rural areas.

Our core principle is that no one should be left behind. Any future transition would only proceed with the right safeguards, infrastructure and support in place, particularly for older people, people with disabilities, low-income households, rural communities and those with lower digital confidence. The Government expects industry, broadcasters, telecoms providers and consumer groups to work together to deliver a comprehensive support package to help audiences transition smoothly and confidently. The Media Green Paper, published in June, is designed to test the evidence and understand where support may be needed. We are currently analysing the results of the consultation, and will set the next steps in due course.