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Media Green Paper
08 September 2026
Lead MP
John Whittingdale
Maldon
Con
Responding Minister
Ian Murray
Tags
Culture, Media & Sport
Word Count: 9007
Other Contributors: 13
At a Glance
John Whittingdale raised concerns about media green paper in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
I ask the government to ensure that universal access to high-speed broadband of sufficient quality is achieved before proceeding with the switch-off of DTT and to consider how to support the future of commercial and local radio. The MP asks the Minister to consider an independent accreditation scheme, introduce stronger obligations on technology companies, and ensure Ofcom's standards apply to online content. She also requests a nationwide media literacy programme, restoration of the strategic priorities grant for journalism education, and sustainable funding for the BBC through the charter renewal process. The BBC has to maintain a free-to-air service, however that is delivered. I want to make sure that we do not take away the ability even to receive television, and that we keep considering whether people may be land-based and whether they can get that connection.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
I am concerned about the switch-off of digital terrestrial TV in 2034, which would require every household to have an internet supply, potentially preventing reception in areas with poor broadband quality. The switch-off could also threaten the future of commercial and local radio, with transmission costs surging by almost 50% per year. The MP is concerned about who will decide what constitutes trustworthy news, suggesting an independent accreditation scheme. She highlights the importance of supporting trustworthy news beyond public service broadcasting, including independent publications and freelance journalists. The MP also stresses the need for stronger duties on platforms to amplify harmful and misleading content, and the critical role of public service broadcasting in providing essential journalism and cultural coverage. I am concerned about the switch-off of free-to-air as it stands. In 2010, there were strong proposals to switch off the FM and AM signals. Long-wave has just been switched off. Technology may move on, but it worries me that we say, "In order to solve this problem and that problem, you are going to have to buy or rent something, or in some way or another enter into a contract to receive something that you currently get free." There are people who live on canal boats, and how are they going to get an internet connection? The BBC is one of the most valuable institutions this country has, because it is able to be a public service broadcaster. It loses its way at times, when chasing ratings and saying that it has to be in competition, on some things that only a public service broadcaster can deliver.
Alec Shelbrooke
Con
Elmet and Rothwell
Asked whether the internet supply required for the switch-off would be provided free or at a subscription cost. Alec Shelbrooke linked the issue of Freeview switch-off to the BBC licence fee, suggesting that the current system ensures the BBC does not fear Ministerial decisions, as opposed to funding through general taxation.
Most people are turning to on-demand and streaming services to watch television and digest media content in Wales, but the shift is not universal: 22% of households in Wales still rely on digital terrestrial television to watch their TV. Ofcom reports that more hard-to-reach households are turning to satellite connectivity; however, increased costs and limited availability means that this is not an option for everyone. Recent polling found that over half of Welsh adults are not confident that their area's internet connection is good enough to get rid of Freeview.
Caroline Voaden
Lib Dem
South Dorset
Caroline Voaden expressed concern over the rapid shift towards social media as the primary news source for young people, highlighting the risks to democracy and the need for reliable news sources. She also stressed the financial pressures on public service broadcasters like the BBC, advocating for a permanent BBC charter to protect its independence and resources. Voaden further noted the importance of digital terrestrial television, particularly in rural areas, citing that 12.9 million homes use terrestrial television, with 2.6 million relying on it exclusively. She warned against setting a switch-off date for Freeview without universal broadband availability, arguing it risks isolating vulnerable communities from local information and culture.
Cat Eccles
Green
Stockport
Cat Eccles urged the government to ensure that the transition from terrestrial broadcasting does not leave people behind, especially older people and lower-income households. She highlighted the importance of terrestrial television during emergencies, citing the Stourbridge wildfires where traditional broadcasting served as a critical communication lifeline when other networks failed. She called for the formal integration of terrestrial broadcasting into national risk assessments and the protection of the transmission network to ensure resilience in future crises.
Expressed concern about the impact of the switch-off on commercial radio, suggesting the government should consider how to ensure commercial radio is not an unintended loser.
Cannock Chase
Christopher Vince raised concerns about the increasing use of AI-generated summaries online, arguing that reliance on such summaries may diminish the importance of trusted sources and primary news sources.
Gordon McKee questioned whether the Minister had looked at international best practices for dealing with media platforms dominated by American tech firms, given that every nation grapples with this issue.
James Wild
Con
Charnwood
James Wild highlighted the shift from traditional broadcast media to on-demand and video streaming platforms, citing data showing YouTube as the most watched service and video streaming services accounting for 75% of video time for audiences aged 16 to 24. He expressed concern over the proposal to impose new regulations to make trustworthy news providers more easily discoverable on social media, arguing it could undermine freedom of speech and the free press.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Stated that the switch-off would directly threaten Northern Ireland's local broadcasting sector and the connectivity of rural and vulnerable communities, with transmission costs for commercial radio set to surge.
Asked about the right hon. Gentleman's views on prominence and how it sits alongside reducing the voting age to 16, questioning how young people are equipped to vote when they primarily get information from platforms like YouTube.
Nigel Huddleston
Con
Mid Worcestershire
Concerned about the future of television distribution after the switch-off of digital terrestrial television (DTT) in 2034 or 2044, particularly for remote and rural communities. Worried about the potential impact on radio transmission costs, with risks to local coverage and listener choice. Highlighted the closure of the iconic Droitwich transmitting station and the importance of retaining long-wave capacity for security reasons. Raised concerns about the definition of 'trusted' content and its potential to become a proxy for Government-approved content, stressing the need to protect freedom of speech and the press.
In my constituency, more than a quarter of households failed to receive speeds of more than 30 megabits per second, and 11 of our 15 local areas rank among the worst-performing 10% nationally. Does the hon. Lady agree that a delay to the switch-off would afford remote coastal households enough time to adapt? Perran Moon inquired about the lack of focus on Cornish-language content in the Green Paper despite the recognition of Kernewek in the Media Act 2024, asking the Minister to ensure these ambitions are translated into practical opportunities.
Suggested that the BBC could enhance its work with local media to maintain a trusted local news source, given that local media is one of the most trusted sources with 42 million readers a week.
Government Response
Ian Murray
Government Response
Welcomed the debate on the Media Green Paper, discussing the challenges faced by the media in a changing environment, the need for regulation, and the importance of a thriving public service media sector. Addressed concerns about prominence for public service media on platforms like YouTube, underlining the Government's preference for voluntary agreements but indicating the possibility of legislation if necessary. Mentioned the importance of addressing issues related to the BBC, including the permanent charter and support for minority language broadcasting. Emphasized the need to address the future of television distribution, aiming for full internet-only television by 2034 as a goal for digital inclusion and high-quality broadband.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.