Blackpool North and Cleveleys MP Paul Maynard has made it clear the BBC must ‘think again’ on proposed changes to free TV licences.
Concerns have been raised that free licenses for Over-75s could be scrapped. The BBC has put forward a number of proposed alternatives, none of which are acceptable to Mr Maynard.
He said: “This is a decision for the BBC, and the Government has made clear to them that it wants and expects them to carry on providing this concession for over 75s.
“The BBC consulted on a number of alternative proposals, none of which I believe would be acceptable to constituents.”
Proposals included means testing and increasing the age threshold as well as the removal of some BBC services.
Mr Maynard said: “I am extremely concerned to hear that changes could be made in the way free TV licenses are issued and have made clear my objections as part of the consultation.
“While I recognise the potential increased costs to the BBC, I also worry about the potential impact changes to the free TV licence programme would make, particularly to vulnerable constituents. It seems strange that the BBC wishes to generate more income from pensioners at a time when it could be generating global income from the iPlayer - deploying its vast archives in a much more commercial way - or reducing the exorbitant salaries paid to some of its stars.
“I would be greatly concerned should the BBC choose to return to a Universal License fee. Equally I recognise the potential disadvantages of the three reform options which have been suggested. Means testing, discounting and an increase in the eligibility age would all place an increased financial burden on individuals who are already at high risk of social isolation.”