can old starview boxes be re programme for freeview?

No satellite receiver can receive Freeview because Freeview is a Digital Terrestrial service. (It comes from a TV antenna - not a satellite dish.)

However all satellite receivers should be able to receive Free To Air Satellite (FTA) programs e.g. BBC, ITV, etc. but you won't get an Electronic Programme Guide (EPG), just now and next. To get a FTA EPG you would need a Freesat receiver.

T
July 2011