BBC To Fund Means-Tested TV Licences For Over 75s

Tuesday, 27 October 2020 06:40

The BBC will pay for the TV licences of some over 75s across the Channel Islands from next year.

Islanders who are assessed as eligible for the means-tested TV licence benefit in Jersey will continue to get it for free.

The current scheme is funded by the island's government and arranged by the Customer and Local Services department.

Guernsey and Alderney residents who are over 75 and qualify for income support will get their licences paid for them, as will over 75s in Sark who receive financial assistance from the Procureur.

The BBC says the move 'puts fairness and parity at the centre of its decision':

"When making their decision, the BBC Board applied the same criteria as when making the decision for the UK based on fairness, financial impact and feasibility. The BBC Board considered fairness to all licence-fee payers, including over 75s, in the Crown Dependencies and in the UK."

The decision was made by the BBC Board, following consultation with islanders.

Just 15 members of the public in Jersey responded, and four stakeholders - including the government. 23 people in Guernsey, Alderney and Sark responded, and five stakeholders did - including the islands' governments.

Concerns raised by islanders at the thought of charging over 75s full price included the cost of living, and other commercial broadcasters offering better content and services.