Poll finds 79% of Brits want Freeview to remain available until 2044

New research commissioned by the Broadcast 2040+ campaign has found that 79 per cent of the UK public believe the BBC's new Charter should include a guarantee that Freeview remains available until at least 2044.

The findings come as the Government prepares to outline its plans for the BBC Charter renewal, with the current Charter due to expire at the end of 2027. The future of terrestrial television remains under consideration, with ministers weighing up a potential switch-off in 2034 or extending the service for a further decade.

The poll also found that 69 per cent of respondents believe leaving Freeview's future undecided in the Charter would demonstrate that the Government is out of touch with the public. Meanwhile, 73 per cent believe it would be unfair to those who rely on Freeview, particularly older people and households without broadband access.

More than six in ten respondents (61 per cent) said including a guarantee in the Charter would demonstrate that the Government is on the side of ordinary people. The research also found that 36 per cent would view the BBC more positively if the Charter secured Freeview's future, compared with just 5 per cent who said it would make them think less favourably of the broadcaster.

The findings come as Prime Minister Andy Burnham faces calls to include a Freeview guarantee in the BBC Charter. Burnham previously expressed concern about terrestrial television switch-off plans and identified Charter renewal as an opportunity to address the issue.

The Broadcast 2040+ campaign argues that maintaining Freeview is essential to ensuring universal access to television, particularly for audiences who depend on aerial-based services.

The debate highlights the ongoing importance of digital terrestrial television and the challenges of ensuring access to broadcasting services as the UK continues its transition towards digital connectivity.