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Written question asked by Matt Vickers (Conservative) on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 June 2026. It was answered by Ian Murray (Labour) on Monday, 22 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Television Licences: Concessions

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, what discussions she has had with the BBC on support for pensioners marginally above the Pension Credit threshold and not eligible for free TV licences.

Answer

The BBC Charter Review Green Paper sought views on ways to make the BBC’s funding fairer, including possible new concessions. As set out in the Green Paper, we do not plan to remove any existing concessions.This includes the concession for over 75s on pension credit which targets those most in need of support. In 2024, the government also extended the Simple Payment Plan to support those facing financial hardship to spread the cost of their TV licence.

The Government is considering responses to the Charter Review public consultation, which closed on 10 March 2026. These will inform policy decisions for the next BBC Royal Charter which will be set out in a White Paper, expected to be published later this year.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
10257
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Concessions Pensioners Television licences
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk