Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what assessment she has made of the potential impact digital terrestrial television switch off in 2034 on terrestrial broadcast radio services in areas with no mobile signal.

The Government is aware that changes to digital terrestrial television (DTT) will have significant implications for radio due to their often shared transmission infrastructure. The Government has committed to maintaining DTT until at least 2034, and no decision has been made about what happens beyond this.

We recognise the vital role of radio in local communities and areas with limited access to mobile services. The Radio Review, which was launched earlier this year, is looking closely at what the options for DTT mean for radio’s long-term strategy and future distribution, and will submit its report to the Government by the end of the year. Any future transition away from DTT will only proceed once the Government is confident the right safeguards, infrastructure and support are in place.