The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has stated it is 'keeping an open mind' about new concessions for TV licences, as a petition demanding free licences for all state pensioners approaches its 100,000-signature target with just 14 days remaining. The petition, which closes on July 21, currently has over 48,000 signatures and could force a parliamentary debate if it reaches the threshold.
Petition Gains Momentum
The petition, hosted on the Parliament website, calls on the Government to fund free TV licences for all existing pensioners and those reaching retirement age. It argues that many pensioners 'live on the breadline with only the TV for company' and that the current means-tested system is unfair. Currently, free licences are only available to over-75s who receive Pension Credit, a policy introduced by the BBC in August 2020 after universal free licences were abolished.
Signatures have risen sharply in recent days, with over 48,000 people backing the campaign. However, supporters have only until July 21 to register their support. If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for a parliamentary debate, increasing pressure on Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, who is currently reviewing the BBC's future funding.
Government Response
The DCMS issued a formal response after the petition reached 10,000 signatures, stating: 'The Government believes that public service broadcasting, and the BBC in particular, are vital British assets... We are keeping an open mind about new concessions.' The department noted that existing concessions include free licences for over-75s on Pension Credit, blind or severely sight-impaired individuals, and people in qualifying residential care who are disabled or over 60.
The standard TV licence fee is £180 per year, while a black-and-white licence costs £60.50. The DCMS emphasised that the Government is committed to the current licence fee and concessions until the end of the BBC Charter period in 2027. The ongoing Charter Review is examining funding options, with the department noting that while 94% of adults use the BBC monthly, fewer than 80% of households pay, creating financial pressure.
Background and Impact
Universal free TV licences for 3.7 million pensioners aged 75 and over ended on July 31, 2020. The BBC said funding free licences for all over-75s would have required 'unprecedented closures' and cost an estimated £745 million per year. The current means-tested system targets those most in need, but critics argue it leaves many pensioners just above the threshold struggling.
The petition states: 'We feel it is a double outrage that those who have given their all to this country in taxes and raising children have to pay a TV licence fee... Meanwhile, some media figures draw huge salaries.' The DCMS has not indicated any immediate plans to change the policy but is 'considering concessions' as part of the broader review.
