Fight to keep free TV for over-75s
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
MORE than 5,000 people in Moray will be hit by the UK Government’s "cruel" decision to scrap the free TV licence for over-75s, it is estimated.
From June 1 next year, 3.7 million UK pensioners will lose their right to a free TV licence to save the BBC around £500 million a year.
The broadcaster said it would continue to provide TV licences to over-75s who can provide evidence that they claim pension credit, a means-tested benefit designed to help older people. However, many people who are entitled to the benefit do not claim it.
The BBC said the change was the only way to avoid channel closures and cuts.
In Moray, it is estimated that 60% of over-75s will be forced to pay an extra £154.50 when the policy is axed.
The SNP has renewed calls on the UK Government to ensure the free TV licence is fully funded, and can continue to benefit households and elderly people across Scotland and the UK.
SNP MSP Richard Lochhead said: "A decade of damaging Tory government cuts has left older people in Scotland worse off – and it’s concerning to see that the decision to axe the free TV licence will hit 5,344 over-75s in Moray.
"This is yet another broken Tory manifesto commitment which will take money out of the pockets of older people.
"It is time this Tory government finally made the welfare of our older population a priority – instead of making things even worse by taking away key benefits.
"The Tories should urgently stop this swindle and ensure that the TV licence for over-75s is properly funded and protected."
The plan has angered charities including Age UK. It says the change will harm millions of older people who rely on their TV – describing it as a cruel blow. Its petition to save free TV for older people has amassed more than 430,500 signatures.
