BECTU: Free TV licence for over-75s is a welfare benefit and should be funded by the Government

BECTU response to today’s BBC consultation findings on the over-75s TV licence.

Today the BBC has announced it will scrap blanket free licences for over-75s, but those households with one person who receives pension credit will still be eligible. Responding to the news, Head of BECTU Philippa Childs said:

“BECTU has argued that free TV licence for over-75s is a welfare benefit and should be funded by the Government. While the BBC’s decision will enable the most vulnerable pensioners to continue to receive a free TV licence  it should never have been the BBC’s responsibility to solve this problem.”

“The BBC needs to be properly funded and supported as a public service broadcaster in order to thrive with globally competitive content and effective reach to its audiences. It should not be made to choose who receives a welfare benefit simply because the Government has decided to passthe buck.”

ENDS

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