23 Jun 2026
The Government has launched a major consultation on the future of UK media, television and public service broadcasting, setting out proposals aimed at ensuring trusted news and high-quality content remain accessible in an increasingly digital world.
The consultation, Watch this Space: A New Strategic Direction for UK Media, explores issues including the future of television distribution, support for public service broadcasters, media literacy, access to trusted news, and how audiences discover content online. It also considers the long-term transition from traditional broadcast television towards internet-delivered services.
While the shift to digital viewing may offer new opportunities, it also raises important questions for rural communities. Reliable broadband and mobile connectivity cannot be taken for granted in many rural areas, and some households continue to rely on traditional television services due to limited internet access, affordability concerns or digital exclusion. Any future changes to TV distribution will need to ensure rural residents are not left behind.
The Rural Services Network encourages members and stakeholders to consider responding to the consultation, particularly where proposals may affect access to information, news, broadcasting services and digital connectivity in rural areas.
The consultation closes on 31 August 2026.
Read the consultation and respond here:
Government consultation – Watch this Space: A New Strategic Direction for UK Media.
