Television Licence Fees (Non-Payment)

HC Deb 23 May 1972 vol 837 cc364-5W

Mr. Gwynoro Jones

asked the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications if he will list the provisions of the law which lay down the extent of judicial discretion available to a magistrates' court with regard to defendants accused of nonpayment of television licences.

Sir J. Eden

Under Section 14 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1949, as amended by Section 11 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1967, the maximum penalty for the unlicensed use of a television set is a fine of £50 for a first offence and of £100 for any subsequent offence. Within these maxima the sentence imposed is a matter for the court's discretion.