HL Deb 17 February 1999 vol 597 c80WA
Lord Morris of Manchester

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What broadcasting licence fees are payable by registered blind persons resident in (a) England and Wales; (b) Scotland; and (c) Northern Ireland respectively. [HL924]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

Throughout the United Kingdom, registered blind people are entitled to a reduction of £1.25 in the television licence fee and therefore pay £96.25 for a colour licence and £31.25 for a black and white one. This year's review of the future funding of the BBC will include a consideration of the current concessionary arrangements, including the reduction for blind people, and whether a suitable alternative structure could be available.