Campaign group demands traditional TV through aerial is kept until 2040

They want the pledge enshrined in legislation that is currently going through Parliament.

It comes as the Media Bill is debated in the House of Commons.

Campaigners Silver Voices found no mention of protecting traditional TV – set to expire in the early 2030s – in the Media Bill.

This is despite Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer saying that older people dependent on terrestrial services should not be “left behind”.

Silver Voices wants the Government to insert a short amendment into the Bill, promising that traditional TV is secure until at least 2040.

Our Keep Us Tuned In campaign backs those demanding terrestrial services and Freeview remains until then.

It comes after Silver Voices and Broadcast 2040+ coalition activists published a landmark study demonstrating the importance of traditional TV to the British public.

Around three-quarters of people thought that removing the service would cut older people off, with 80% believing it should be protected past 2040.

Traditional TV is still enjoyed by more than 17 million people, often by the poor, older people and the disconnected in rural areas.

Dennis Reed of Silver Voices said: “Two months ago, the Culture Secretary was telling us that viewers who depend on traditional TV should not be left behind.

“Now in the Media Bill, there is not a single reference to protecting traditional TV.

“Amending the Bill to provide this guarantee would be simple and straightforward. If the Government doesn’t act, then MPs should insist on this amendment.”

Demands for the protection of traditional TV come as it emerged that the BBC has sent out more than 100 million letters for non-payment of the licence fee.