HC Deb 21 July 1971 vol 821 cc1431-2
12. Mr. Rost

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications why the beneficiary of a deceased relative's estate cannot claim a refund on the unexpired portion of a television licence unless the licensee has died within 28 days of the due date of its renewal.

Mr. Chataway

In order to keep the licence system as simple as possible, successive Governments have followed the general policy of not giving refunds on television licences which are not needed for the full period of the licence. I cannot make an exception in favour of any licensee whose need for a licence has exceeded 28 days.

Mr. Rost

Is my right hon. Friend saying that he is satisfied with the highhanded, dictatorial system being operated by a State monopoly which is exploiting the public in the sense that the public has to buy a television licence a year in advance and if, for one good reason or another—for example, if he dies—a person cannot use the licence he cannot claim a refund? Is not this a system which no commercial, private enterprise organisation would be allowed to get away with? Is it not cheating the public, and is it not time that we stopped this "take it or leave it" attitude by a State monopoly?

Mr. Chataway

I think it would be expensive to make any more exceptions. Of course, it would be administratively possible to offer refunds throughout the year in respect of any portion of a licence, but we must balance the interests. [An HON. MEMBER : "What about dog licences?"] It is hon. Members opposite who are the experts on dog licences. I do not believe that the expense involved in doing what is suggested would be justified by any benefit to the customers.

Mr. Heffer

Would the Minister have another look at this matter because I think there are cases which should be considered? For example, one can get a refund on a motor car licence. Surely the refund system could be applied in this case? As one who has never had a dog licence and is never likely to get one, I think there is a case for consideration. Despite the rather childish language used by the Minister, I think this matter should be looked at.

Mr. Chataway

I have looked at this carefully. One is bound to draw the line at some point, and it would not be sensible, with all the work which would be involved, to give refunds for the very small portion of unexpired licence. I think that the present line of 28 days is probably about right.