A growing movement in the UK is calling for the abolition of the TV licence fee for everyone who has reached the State Pension age—currently 66 years old.
As of March 2025, the petition created by activist Michael Thompson had garnered over 41,000 signatures, and by a later count reached more than 54,000, pushing it toward the threshold for parliamentary debate.
At present, only those aged 75 and over receiving Pension Credit automatically benefit from a free TV licence, saving them around £174.50 annually. This campaign argues it’s time to extend that concession to all pensioners, regardless of means.
Why This Matters Now
- Financial Strain on Pensioners
Many retirees live on tight fixed incomes, with rising food and utility bills placing additional burdens. For many, the TV is their primary form of company, making this concession an emotional as well as financial relief. - Injustice Perceived
Supporters see it as a double injustice that those who have contributed to society through taxes and care are still required to pay a licence fee unless they qualify for means-tested support, while high-earning media figures remain exempt. - Momentum Building Fast
The petition’s rapid rise—increasing from around 6,500 to over 41,000 signatures—demonstrates growing public and political urgency around reevaluating the licence fee’s fairness.
Current State of Affairs vs. Proposed Change
| Current Policy (2025) | Proposed Reform |
|---|---|
| Free TV licence only for over-75s receiving Pension Credit | Free TV licence for all individuals aged 66 and older |
| Annual fee: £174.50 (rising with inflation until 2027) | Licence fee eliminated entirely for state pensioners |
| Requires means-tested benefit and age threshold | Universal concession based solely on age |
| Limited payment flexibility for struggling households | Presumed elimination of any payment requirement |
The Licence Fee Landscape
- The annual TV licence fee stands at £174.50, with small increases expected each year through 2027.
- Currently, only means-tested support qualifies you for a free licence—and only if you’re 75 or older.
- The Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, has signaled openness to reforms—such as sliding scales or differentiated rates based on household income—but no final decisions have been made.
- Alternatives like a subscription model have been floated, though there’s concern they may limit universal service and reduce access.
What Supporters Are Saying
- Michael Thompson, the petition’s creator, argues that providing a free licence is a modest but meaningful recognition for older adults who feel other costs continue to mount.
- There’s a prevailing sentiment that pensioners, many of whom now rely on essential support systems, shouldn’t have to pay for basic companionship and access to information.
What’s at Stake Politically?
- The petition has cleared the first major hurdle (tens of thousands of signatures), prompting government response and possibly paving the way for Parliamentary debate if it reaches 100,000 signatures.
- The upcoming Charter Review of the BBC will also reexamine licence fee funding models, potentially creating fertile ground for structural reform.
Tips for Interested Readers
- Stay Involved: If you support this cause, consider signing or sharing the petition to ensure it reaches 100,000 signatures and triggers parliamentary consideration.
- Explore Relief Options: Even under current policy, those 75+ on Pension Credit are entitled to a free licence. Make sure all eligible help is being claimed.
- Watch for Policy Updates: Charter Review discussions and culture ministry announcements could bring new changes in funding or concessions.
The call to scrap TV licence fees for all over State Pension age reflects a growing consensus on supporting vulnerable older adults—many of whom face rising costs and social isolation. With over 54,000 signatures, the movement is approaching the threshold for formal debate.
Whilst current law only grants a free licence to those 75+ on Pension Credit, this campaign aims to establish a universal concession that honors the contributions of all retirees. Stay informed—this issue might come to a screen near you soon.
FAQs
Who currently gets a free TV licence?
Only individuals aged 75 or over and claiming Pension Credit are automatically eligible for a free TV licence, saving £174.50 annually.
What changes are being proposed?
The campaign calls for scrapping the licence fee altogether for everyone aged 66 and above, removing the current age and means-tested barriers.
What happens if the petition hits 100,000 signatures?
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures, it will be considered by the Petitions Committee for debate in Parliament, significantly raising its profile and political pressure.
