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<p>The BBC is editorially and operationally independent of the Government and the
Government has no say on what programmes or services the BBC provides for deaf or
elderly licence fee payers.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>However, the Royal Charter
requires the BBC to serve all audiences - including deaf and elderly licence fee payers
- through the provision of impartial, high-quality and distinctive output and services
which inform, educate and entertain.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>With regard to
elderly licence fee payers, the Government is 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.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>For deaf licence fee payers,
Ofcom is responsible for setting a Code on Television Access Services, which includes
guidance which must be observed by the BBC in relation to providing subtitles and
signing on its television channels. The Code sets out 10-year statutory targets for
the BBC in relation to subtitling (100%) and signing (5%). Ofcom is currently reviewing
how the BBC should make its UK Public Services accessible.</p><p> </p>
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