Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Oldham Council has appealed to the Government. This is in a letter to the Secretary of State of The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. The intention is to provide enough funding to continue free television (TV) licences. This is for the over-75s beyond the current 1st August 2020 cut-off date. The call comes as Covid-19 prevents many elderly people who are shielding from going out as normal.
For many who live alone, the television may be their sole companion. Not just a source of entertainment, the television allows people to stay informed on current Government advice in an ever-changing situation.
Councillor Sykes comments: “Tragically, Covid-19 has taken far too many of our citizens, particularly our older citizens. Government advice is for the elderly and vulnerable is to self-isolate, to stay home to stay safe.”
He finishes to say: “To me it seems wholly inappropriate to expect the over-75s to pay for a television licence at this time. I think it would be an excellent goodwill gesture for the Government to continue providing funding to the BBC so our elders can enjoy TV and stay informed without the worry.”