Language campaigners are considering a legal challenge over changes to S4C, after top Euro officials said a drop in Welsh TV services would break international law.

During discussions with the head of the secretariat of the European minority languages charter, Alexey Kozhemyakov, officials confirmed that the treaty bans countries from a 'lower level of undertaking', or a reduction in the minority language TV service people receive. S4C faces a ninety-four percent cut to its grant from the Government over the next four years. In the meeting with Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg (The Welsh Language Society), it was also confirmed that the UK Government is bound by law to provide a TV channel in Welsh.

Menna Machreth, broadcasting spokesperson for Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg said that the group would be considering any legal steps they could take following the meeting: "These statements from top European official are very significant. It's clear that the BBC and Government plans breach international law. It's inevitable that the standard of service will suffer because of the massive cuts they're planning. So, we will be considering any legal options we have so we can stop Ministers in London from breaking their commitments."

The officials stated that the European charter, designed to protect radio and TV services, is an ' international obligation'. They also pointed out that the UK Government had 'freely agreed to' the charter and that it is 'legally binding'."

Jill Evans MEP, who organised the trip, added:"The attack on S4C is an attack on the Welsh language itself. As a recognised EU language, this has implications way beyond Wales. S4C is seen as a model for many other countries and the European Charter for Minority Languages requires the provision of television and radio in the relevant languages of each country."I have refused to pay my TV license as a protest against the attack on S4C by the Westminster Government. I'd like to see responsibilities over broadcasting devolved to the Welsh Assembly, as it clearly lacks the respect it should have from the Westminster Government. Minority languages should have equality with other European languages with regards to broadcasting, which means sufficient funding and no interference by politicians."

Ms Machreth added:"Tens of thousands of people have opposed these plans including the Archbishop of Wales, the party leaders and tens of organisations. We as a civic society have a duty to consider every option that would stop plans that break the human rights of the people of Wales. It's time our politicians started to listen."