End of free TV license for over 75s ‘shameful’

The current benefit is due to come to an end on 31 July and will see some 200,000 people affected in the North.

The Foyle MLA commented: “This is a disgraceful decision which should never have come to pass. Even the timing of this move, amidst a pandemic which has seen many isolated to their own homes, is mind-boggling.

“The UK government has talked out of both sides of their mouth on this matter. By failing to act they have let down every elderly citizen on these islands. A free TV licence in the current context may appear a trivial issue, however I would argue that its importance is greater than ever. Access to a TV for the elderly who find themselves housebound, increasingly so in recent months, has been a lifeline. It staves off loneliness during isolating times and for many has been a companion of sorts.

“Many pensioners struggle as it is to survive on the allowance they receive, to take a further £157.50 from their pockets would be unconscionable.

“It’s high time the TV licence was scrapped for over 75s once and for all.

“This is a paltry ask in the grand scheme of things.”

BC Chairman Sir David Clementi has said the decision has “not been easy”, and claimed that the BBC was under “under severe financial pressure”.

The BBC has also warned that making no changes would have led to “unprecedented closures” of services.