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<p>The decision on the future of the free TV licence fee concession is entirely a
matter for the BBC. In the 2015 funding settlement, we agreed that responsibility
for the concession would transfer to the BBC in June 2020. The agreement became part
of the Digital Economy Act 2017, discussed and passed by the House, and enshrined
in the new Royal Charter in 2017. Both the Act and the Royal Charter are already in
the public domain.</p><p> </p><p>The BBC conducted an extensive public consultation
with over 190,000 responses, before coming to a view that only those aged 75 and above
and in receipt of pension credit will continue to receive a free television licence.</p><p>
</p><p>The Secretary of State expressed disappointment with the BBC for taking the
most narrowly focused reform option despite receiving its highest ever level of licence
fee funding. We have asked the BBC to do more to help the most vulnerable groups affected
by the decision.</p><p> </p><p>Enforcement of the licence fee is also a matter for
the BBC. But we have asked the BBC to consider among its measures of support for vulnerable
groups, those which might alleviate concerns around enforcement among the over 75s.</p>
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