The UK government plans to examine ways to sustainably preserve linear TV for older and disadvantaged audiences amid the streaming revolution.
Information Minister Stephanie Peacock will oversee a forum of broadcasters and experts to look at the future of traditional TV so that all viewers can continue to have access to British content.
The BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Paramount, Sky and media regulator Ofcom will be among the industry organizations represented at the forum, which will meet quarterly.
The group’s aim is to ensure “no one is left behind” in the tidal wave of connected viewing and the rise of services, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Research published by the government shows that 5% of UK households, or around 1.5 million people, will continue to rely on linear TV in 2040. This “unconnected” group tends to include the elderly and disadvantaged, as well as those living in rural areas. Communities.
Peacock said: “As the shift towards live streaming and online streaming continues, it’s important that no one is left behind. “I want to make sure that as many people as possible can watch TV in the way that works for them.
“This new forum, bringing together key players in the TV industry and audience groups, will help deliver a long-term plan that will ensure everyone in society has access to world-class British content in the coming decades.”
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