The government has responded to a petition calling for free BBC TV licences for all state pensioners, which has gained 43,000 signatures. The petition, which needs 100,000 signatures to trigger a parliamentary debate, aims to extend the free licence to everyone of state pension age, currently 66 for both men and women.
Petition Details
The petition, launched on the parliamentary website, states: "We want the Government to fund free TV licences for existing pensioners and those who reach the official retirement age. When people reach retirement age, we think they should receive a state-financed free TV licence." It highlights that many pensioners live on the breadline with only the television for company, facing rising food costs and utility bills.
Government Response
The government issued a formal reply on June 1, 2026, noting that concessions are available for over-75s in receipt of Pension Credit. It stated: "There is no BBC concession to provide free TV licences for all pensioners at this time." The petition remains open until July 21, 2026, and if it reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.
Current Rules
Currently, only those aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit qualify for a free TV licence, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). A rule change to align free licences with state pension age would make millions more aged 66 to 75 eligible. The government continues a Pension Credit uptake campaign, sending letters to potential claimants.
The petition argues it is a "double outrage" that pensioners who have contributed through taxes and raising children must pay the licence fee, while some media figures earn high salaries. The government has not indicated any plans to change the current concession.
