The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has issued a response to a petition demanding that the Labour government fund free television licences for all state pensioners. While no universal free licence is planned, the DCMS highlighted existing concessions for certain groups, including those over the age of 60 who live in care or have a disability.
DCMS Response to Petition
In its official reply, the DCMS stated: "There are a number of TV licence concessions available, including for over-75s in receipt of pension credit. There is no BBC concession to provide free TV licences for all pensioners at this time." The department emphasised that public service broadcasting, particularly the BBC, remains a vital British asset supporting democracy and community cohesion.
Existing Concessions for Over-60s
Pensioners aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can already obtain a free licence. Additionally, concessions are available for people over 60 if they reside in qualifying residential care or are registered disabled. The DCMS clarified: "TV Licence concessions are set out in legislation and are currently available to people who are registered blind or severely sight impaired, as well as to over-75s in receipt of pension credit, and people living in qualifying residential care who are disabled or over 60 years old."
Government Commitment to Licence Fee
The government confirmed its commitment to the current licence fee and its concessions until the end of the current Charter period in 2027. It acknowledged financial difficulties faced by some households and pointed to the expansion of the Simple Payment Plan (SPP) in 2024, which allows unlicensed households to split annual payments into fortnightly or monthly instalments. The BBC estimates this expansion could double SPP usage to around 500,000 households by 2027.
The DCMS concluded by reiterating its belief in public funding for the BBC, citing the public good it serves, while noting that no changes to free licences for all pensioners are forthcoming.
