The Department for Work and Pensions is set to issue a formal response to a major petition calling for free TV licences for all state pensioners. The petition, which has garnered nearly 20,000 signatures, demands that the government fund free TV licences for every individual who has reached the state pension age.
Petition Details
Created by Michael Thompson, the petition on the Parliament website states: "Fund Free TV licences for all pensioners." It closes on 21 July 2026 and has already surpassed the 10,000-signature threshold required to trigger a government response. The petition argues: "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."
Government Obligation
As the petition exceeded 10,000 signatures on 17 May 2026, the Labour government and the DWP are now compelled to respond. The DWP oversees many retiree benefits, including free TV licences for those on Pension Credit, which provides up to £4,300 annually, along with council tax discounts and Royal Mail recirculation costs.
Thompson highlighted the financial struggles of pensioners: "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." He also expressed outrage that pensioners must pay the licence fee unless they receive means-tested Pension Credit, while some media figures earn huge salaries.
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament. The government response is expected imminently.
