Digital TV is due to replace analogue completely by 2010

The organisation says that market forces will not be enough to persuade all viewers to make the transition.

Analogue is due to be terminated between 2006 and 2010 but may stall without government intervention, Ofcom chief executive Stephen Carter said.

Some 50% of UK households have already transferred to digital TV.

Ofcom's report on the digital switchover is due to be published next week.

It is expected to recommend stronger cross-party support for the move, and will urge the government to give a more precise date for analogue's switch-off.

Improved access

Ofcom also wants to see the creation of an autonomous body which will oversee the smooth transition from analogue to digital.

It is also urging the BBC to embrace digital platforms aside from Freeview, and sees the upcoming review of the Royal Charter as an opportunity to put its commitment to digital on the same footing as other broadcasters.

The media body is also recommending that access to free digital channels via satellite is improved.