Written question asked by James Wild (Conservative) on Monday, 14 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 October 2026. It was answered by Ian Murray (Labour) on Thursday, 15 October 2026 on behalf of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

Television: Digital Broadcasting

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, what conditions must be met before a Digital Terrestrial Television switch-off in 2034 can proceed.

Answer: 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.

Secondary information