Government must compensate BBC for Coronavirus licence fee extension

Responding to the news that the BBC has postponed the changes to TV licences for the over-75s until 1st August 2020, Liberal Democrat DCMS spokesperson Daisy Cooper said: “As Ministers warn that people aged over 70 may soon be asked to stay at home, this announcement will be welcome news.

“But it is not a decision that the BBC should have to make. Passing the buck on free TV licences for the over-75s was an underhand tactic by the Conservatives. The Government was wrong to force these cost-cutting measures on to the BBC.

“Boris Johnson should do the honourable thing and compensate the BBC for the loss of revenue. At a time when fake news about Coronavirus is spreading rapidly, Liberal Democrats will support our public broadcasters to provide accurate, impartial information to those who need it most.”

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