The Paralympic Games is set to be added to the list of sporting events that must be screened live on free-to-air television in the UK ©Getty Images

The British Paralympic Association (BPA) has welcomed news that the Government is set to add the Paralympic Games to the list of sporting events that must be screened live on free-to-air television.

BPA chief executive Mike Sharrock said the Games joining the protected "crown jewels" list was a "significant moment for a nation that is proud to be the home of Paralympic sport".

The decision from the Government means the Paralympic Games will enjoy the same status as the Olympic Games and other major events, including the FIFA World Cup, the Grand National and Wimbledon finals.

The "Sports and Other Listed and Designated Events" list, which has not been updated for 20 years, dictates the events which must offer live rights to free-to-air broadcasters at a “fair and reasonable” cost.

"Adding the Paralympic Games to the list rightly puts it on the same footing as the Olympics," said Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Jeremy Wright.

The Paralympic Games have been shown on Channel 4 in the UK since London 2012 ©Getty Images
The Paralympic Games have been shown on Channel 4 in the UK since London 2012 ©Getty Images

The Paralympics have been screened on Channel 4, a free-to-air broadcaster, in Britain since London 2012.

Next year's Paralympics in Tokyo are also due to be broadcast by Channel 4.

"The Paralympic Games is the most inspirational sporting event in the world and London 2012 demonstrated the British public’s passion for watching our incredible athletes compete," Sharrock added.

“We have been advocating for some time that the Paralympic Games should be treated in the same way as the Olympic Games and always be available on free-to-air television. 

"This is a significant moment for a nation that is proud to be the home of Paralympic sport.”