BBC LICENCE FEE SHOULD BE SET BY INDEPENDENT BODY, LIB DEMS SAY


September 29th, 2020.

Liberal Democrats release:


At their Autumn Conference this weekend, the Liberal Democrats have agreed proposals that would see the BBC licence fee level set independently next year after government cuts forced the BBC to end free TV licences for most over-75s.


As of 1 August 2020, TV licences are now only free for people over the age of 75 if they are receiving pension credit. According to analysis by the Liberal Democrats, this dramatic cut has impacted more than 7,000 people in the Lewes constituency.

Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper warned that ending free TV licences for the over 75s “could push some of the poorest pensioners into poverty, and jars with common decency.”

The Party is also fighting for review of the decision to cut hundreds of BBC staff working across regional programmes and agreed new measures to ensure the BBC workforce is more diverse and reflective of the country it serves.

Local Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesperson, James MacCleary, said: “We are amid a national crisis. I find it shocking that 7,000 people in our area have lost free access to public broadcasts at a time when it could not be more important, especially for those who are vulnerable or isolated.

"The BBC provides a valuable and respected service that not only adds value to our society but is relied upon as a source of truth around the world. The government's politically motivated attempts to undermine it are shortsighted and self-defeating.

“Liberal Democrats are calling for an independent body to review the licence fee. We also want to see the Government step in now and provide funding to reinstate free licences given the crisis we are facing.”

Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper MP added: “Ending free TV licences for the over 75s, which could push some of the poorest pensioners into poverty, jars with common decency.

“We must be clear: the responsibility of these cuts falls squarely at the feet of Conservative Ministers. People deserve better.”
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