The annual TV licence fee has risen from £174.50 to £180 as of 1 April, sparking a new petition calling for free licences for all pensioners. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) confirmed the increase is 'in line with inflation' as per the 2022 Licence Fee Settlement, with a further rise expected next April.
The e-petition, created by Michael Thompson, urges the UK Government to fund free TV licences for existing pensioners and those reaching retirement age. It argues that 'many pensioners live on the breadline with only the TV for company' and highlights the financial strain of rising food and utility costs. The petition has been posted on the UK Government's Petitions Parliament website.
At 10,000 signatures, the petition would receive a written response, likely from the DCMS. If it reaches 100,000 signatures, the Petitions Committee would consider it for parliamentary debate. Currently, free licences are only available to over-75s receiving Pension Credit, with reduced fees for care home residents and blind individuals.
The DCMS defended the fee increase, stating it provides the BBC with 'stable financial footing' and supports the creative industries. A spokesperson said the government is committed to ensuring the BBC's funding model is 'sustainable, fair and affordable' and will continue to support payment plans to ease the burden on households.
