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Andy Burnham enrages Brits with major TV change – ‘could bring Government down!’
The Government is consulting on a plan to replace Freeview with internet-delivered television, with 2034 as its preferred switch-off date and 2044 as a fallback. The proposal has drawn criticism from people concerned that an online-only system could exclude older viewers and households unable to afford or access reliable broadband.
Up to 5.4 million homes lack reliable high-speed broadband or cannot afford it, while more than 70 MPs have urged ministers to guarantee Freeview until at least 2044. Andy Burnham has said he is concerned about the 2034 target and suggested the plans may be reviewed. The Government says maintaining transmitters is costly as viewing habits change; the BBC and ITV support streaming, and the BBC warns it may cut programmes without the transition.
In short
- Ministers are considering ending Freeview by 2034 or 2044.
- Up to 5.4 million homes may lack suitable broadband.
- Burnham has raised concerns and a review may follow.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Moving television online could reflect changing viewing habits and reduce the cost of maintaining broadcast transmitters, freeing resources for programmes and services people increasingly watch through streaming. A planned transition by 2034 could give broadcasters and government time to prepare, while the 2044 fallback recognises that the timetable may need to change.
The case against
Ending Freeview could leave millions of households without dependable or affordable broadband unable to watch television, with older viewers and people on lower incomes especially at risk of exclusion. Keeping broadcast service until at least 2044 would protect access while connectivity improves, and avoid making essential news and public-service programmes depend on internet access.
Explained simply
Freeview is a television service delivered through an aerial, while streaming sends programmes over the internet. The Government is consulting on moving towards internet-delivered TV as viewing habits change and the cost of maintaining transmitters rises.
The debate involves ministers, broadcasters including the BBC and ITV, and viewers who rely on Freeview. Greater use of streaming could give broadcasters more flexibility, but it depends on households having reliable, affordable broadband.
Andy Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, has raised concerns about the proposed timetable. More than 70 MPs want Freeview guaranteed until at least 2044, amid estimates that up to 5.4 million homes lack reliable high-speed broadband or cannot afford it.
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