The government has admitted that 'new concessions' for pensioners on TV licence fees are possible as part of ongoing BBC charter reforms.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport is considering changes following a Green Paper review into BBC funding. Currently, the standard annual fee stands at £180 for a colour licence.
Petition and calls for free licences
More than 66,000 people signed a petition calling for free TV licences for all pensioners, citing concerns about poverty and social isolation. Tory MP Matt Vickers questioned ministers about extending free licences to pensioners at risk.
Minister Ian Murray said: "The BBC Charter Review Green Paper sought views on ways to make the BBC's funding fairer, including possible new concessions." He confirmed existing concessions for over-75s on pension credit would remain.
Petition's arguments
The petition argued: "Many pensioners live on the breadline with only the TV for company. With the cost of food soaring and utility bills ever higher, we feel there is a desperate need to provide all pensioners with at least this concession."
Next steps
The government is reviewing responses to the Charter Review consultation which closed in March 2026. A White Paper detailing policy decisions for the next BBC Royal Charter is expected later this year.
By law in the UK, any household or property must pay the standard TV licence fee (currently £180 per year for a colour licence) if they watch or record live television on any channel or service, live-stream TV on online platforms, or download and use BBC iPlayer.
