Petition to restore free TV licence for all pensioners reaches huge milestone | UK | News
A petition demanding the government bring back free TV licenses for all pensioners has surpassed 14,000 signatures, triggering an official response and increasing pressure on ministers amid a cost-of-living crisis. The campaign, launched by Michael Thompson in January, calls for state-funded licenses to be issued to anyone at state pension age (currently 66 and rising), arguing that television is not a luxury but a vital lifeline for isolated older people.
Mr Thompson said: “Many pensioners are living on the breadline with only television. With food costs and electricity bills spiraling higher, we think there is a desperate need for all pensioners to be provided with at least this privilege.” He called the current system a “double disgrace”. Pensioners who “give everything to this country in taxes and raising children” still have to pay the £169.50 annual fee unless they qualify for means-tested Pension Credit. He added: “Meanwhile, some people in the media are getting huge salaries.”
petition Support rose rapidly after the license fee rose to £169.50 in April, underlining widespread anger over the squeeze on pensioners’ incomes.
It passed the 10,000 signature threshold earlier this month, forcing the government to respond, and will remain open until July 21. Reaching 100,000 signatures will trigger debate in parliament.
Free universal licenses for over-75s were canceled in 2020, with responsibility handed over to the BBC as part of the contract agreement. Now only those with Pension Credit are eligible, leaving hundreds of thousands of older people, many of whom are proud or unaware of this benefit, to foot the bill.
Campaigners say TV provides companionship, news and entertainment to millions of people living alone, struggling with loneliness and struggling to afford energy and groceries. Supporters argue that after decades of contributions, retirees deserve this basic support without going through means-testing hoops.
The issue remains politically toxic. The original universal franchise, introduced under Labour, was scrapped by Conservative Party-led changes, sparking anger among older voters.
Given the aging population and ongoing financial pressures, restoring this population could be a popular, albeit expensive, move.
Mr. Thompson’s drive stems from a deep resentment: Hard-working retirees feel forgotten while publishers pay handsomely for top talent. As signatures grow daily, the petition underscores a simple demand: give retirees back a small but meaningful dignity in retirement.
A Government spokesman confirmed a response would be published after 10,000 signatures. It remains to be seen whether this will satisfy campaigners or spark calls for further action.
