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<p>The global cost of living is rising and this Government is committed to supporting
households as much as possible during these difficult times. When setting the level
of the licence fee earlier this year, the Government had to think very carefully about
the impact that any increase would have on households.</p><p>Therefore, on 17 January,
the Secretary of State announced that the licence fee will be frozen at £159 until
April 2024, before rising with inflation until April 2028. This settlement aims to
support all households at a time when they need that support the most.</p><p>The Government
remains deeply disappointed with the BBC's decision to restrict the over 75 licence
fee concession to only those in receipt of Pension Credit. We recognise the value
of free TV licences for over-75s and believe they should be funded by the BBC. The
BBC must look at how it uses its substantial licence fee income to support older people.</p>
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