Skip to main content

Written question asked by Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick (Labour) on Friday, 9 January 2026, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Friday, 23 January 2026. It was answered by Baroness Twycross (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 January 2026 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.


Digital Broadcasting: Television

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what modelling they have done of the impact of changes to digital terrestrial television on older people, disabled people and low income households in Northern Ireland, and what steps they will take to mitigate additional costs to those households.

Answer

The Government is leading a project to assess the future of TV distribution beyond 2034 and is committed to maintaining cross border access for all audiences. The project will continue to engage with devolved governments to understand the distinct characteristics of broadcasting in Northern Ireland and the future of the Northern Ireland multiplex. The Stakeholder Forum benefited from the perspectives of organisations representing Northern Irish audiences including the Rural Services Network and Digital Poverty Alliance. Before any decision is made close consideration will be given to how any changes would impact audiences, especially those that are older, disabled, and on lower incomes.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL13435
Session
2024-26
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Disability Digital broadcasting Households Low incomes Northern Ireland Older people Television
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk