**Public Uproar Grows over Potential End to Traditional TV Broadcasting Post‑2034**
Concerns are sweeping across the UK following government discussions suggesting that television broadcasts via aerial — known commonly as terrestrial TV — could come to an end after 2034. The proposal is provoking a strong reaction from advocacy groups and members of the public, who argue that millions of people still depend on terrestrial services, particularly older viewers and those on lower incomes.
The debate was fuelled by a recent report commissioned by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), which implied a move towards exclusively internet-based TV could be widely accepted. However, campaigners have questioned the legitimacy of the research, describing it as fundamentally flawed and unrepresentative of the nation.
The report, produced by London firm Revealing Reality, gathered opinions from just one hundred individuals. Critics such as Dennis Reed, director of the older people’s campaign group Silver Voices, were quick to label this sample size as “ridiculously flawed”, pointing out that half of the respondents were already using internet TV services and almost a third resided in London. Just 27 participants were over the age of 65, despite this demographic comprising a large share of terrestrial TV users.
At the heart of the government’s plans is a speech by BBC Director General Tim Davie, who proposed the UK should formally transition to Internet Protocol (IP) television in the 2030s. Mr Davie stated that such a transition would bring clear financial and social advantages, and maintained the BBC wanted to collaborate with both government and industry to ensure a fair switchover.
Yet, this prospect has raised alarm, particularly as the existing regulations assure the continuity of terrestrial broadcasting only until 2034. Beyond that date, the future remains uncertain. The current consultation launched by the DCMS is investigating what television provision should look like from that point on, but there are growing fears that decisions could be made without robust public input.
Dennis Reed raised particular concern for those who either cannot afford broadband or do not wish to use it. “It’s intolerable that such a major decision is being advanced under a cloak of stealth,” he said, warning that millions risk being “left without TV”. According to national data, people in less affluent communities and those aged over 75 are among the most reliant on terrestrial transmissions.
Meanwhile, ministers have rushed to assure the public that no final decision has been taken. Culture minister Stephanie Peacock reiterated in Parliament that the law guarantees digital terrestrial television until at least 2034. She further explained that, before any significant changes are sanctioned, the government would closely scrutinise the implications for all audiences — especially those for whom aerial TV remains essential.
Whilst half of those surveyed as part of the government’s research said they primarily watch terrestrial TV, the remainder had already migrated to online streaming services. Critics argue this split misrepresents national viewing habits and glosses over the challenges faced by millions who are not yet ready — or able — to embrace a digital-only future.
As the consultation continues, there are calls for greater transparency and wider engagement. Some observers fear that the move towards online-only broadcasting could leave the most vulnerable out of reach, exacerbating social divides and further isolating those already marginalised.
With little clarity about what television landscapes might look like beyond 2034, this debate signals a defining moment for UK broadcasting — one that demands careful consideration of technology, accessibility, and the needs of a changing but diverse population.