Concessionary Television Licences

HC Deb 17 June 1985 vol 81 cc8-9W

Mr. Madden

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received from Bradford metropolitan council during the last year concerning the issuing of free television licences to all households consisting solely of pensioners; what action he has taken as a result; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Giles Shaw

Of the three letters received from Bradford metropolitan council in the last year or so on the subject of concessionary television licences, one concerned the issue of free licences to all households consisting solely of pensioners, paid for out of taxation. We have replied explaining that in the Government's view the cost of free licences for all households comprising only pensioners, which we estimate would be about £225 million a year, could not reasonably be added to public expenditure.