BBC TV licence fee petition for over-75s has 50,000 signatures - despite Government reject

Nearly 50,000 people have backed an online petition calling for the abolition of the BBC TV licence fee for everyone over the State Pension age, despite the proposal being rejected by the UK Government earlier this year.

The petition is almost halfway to the crucial 100,000 signatures required for it to be considered for debate in Parliament by the Petitions Committee - a target it needs to hit by 26 May 2025.

Michael Thompson, who started the petition, argues that given the soaring costs of food and utilities, there's a "desperate need to provide all pensioners with at least this concession" of exemption from the TV licence fee, which rose from £169.50 to £174.50 on 1 April.

Although the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) posted an official response on the petitions-parliament website, they sidestepped the issue directly.

Instead, the reply highlighted that seniors aged 75 and above could be eligible for a free TV licence if they receive Pension Credit. It also mentioned the expansion of the Simple Payment Plan, designed to alleviate the financial strain of the annual fee, now increased to £174.50 starting April, according to the Daily Record.

This Simple Payment Plan allows those struggling to afford the current £169.50 annual charge the option to split payments into smaller fortnightly or monthly amounts over 12 months.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) has pointed out that according to BBC's data, there could be a significant increase in households on the Simple Payment Plan, potentially reaching 500,000 by the end of 2027.

Their statement also highlighted: "The forthcoming Charter Review is a key opportunity to set the BBC up for success long into the future. It will look at a range of issues and, as a priority for this Government, will start a national conversation to make sure the BBC truly represents and delivers for every person in this country."

They further added: "As we address these vital issues about the future of the BBC, we must also ensure that there is a sustainable funding model that is fair for those who pay for it. The Government will be taking forward this issue as part of the Charter Review process, since what the BBC does and its future role is fundamentally influenced by how it is funded."

The DCMS has stated: "The Government is keeping an open mind about the future of the licence fee, and firmly believes that the unique obligations placed on the BBC demand continued, sustainable public funding to support its vital work."

For the complete response from the DCMS, please refer to the

Who needs to buy a TV licence?

• A TV licence is needed in the UK to watch or record any programmes as they are being broadcast live on television
• It is also required to watch or stream live programming on any online TV streaming service, such as BBC iPlayer, Sky Go, Amazon prime and YouTube

Ways to pay for a TV licence

A TV licence costs £174.50 presently and can be paid all at once or through different payment methods.

• Pay weekly, fortnightly or monthly with a TV Licensing payment card - once the card is set up you can pay online, through the TV Licensing app, by phone, text message or at any PayPoint
• Pay by monthly, quarterly or yearly Direct Debit
• Pay less for your licence if you're over 75 on Pension Credit (exempt), registered blind (50% discount), or live in a care home

Can I get a discount?

Certain groups are eligible for TV licence discounts, including those residing in care homes who could potentially receive it for free or at a reduced rate if they're part of an Accommodation for Residential Care scheme.

Individuals who are registered blind can avail of a half-price TV Licence (£84.75) and may also qualify for a refund on payments made in previous years, provided they have been the registered TV licence holder.

Free TV Licence for over-75s

Over-75s who already receive Pension Credit can apply for their free TV Licence when they turn 74. TV Licensing will adjust your payments to cover you until your 75th birthday, after which your free licence will take effect.

This will be confirmed in writing.

If you believe you're eligible for a free licence but don't currently possess a TV licence, you can call 0300 790 6117 and speak to an advisor to request an application form. The lines are open from Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 6.30pm.