Overview

This bill proposes to decriminalize non-payment of the BBC television licence fee for individuals over 75 years old. Currently, non-payment is a criminal offence. This bill aims to change that for older individuals.

Description

The BBC Licence Fee Non-Payment (Decriminalisation for Over-75s) Bill amends the Communications Act 2003. Specifically, it modifies Section 363, which relates to the requirement for a television licence. The amendment adds the clause "aged under 75" after the word "person" in subsections (2) and (3). This effectively means that only individuals under 75 will be subject to criminal prosecution for non-payment of the licence fee. The Act will come into force 30 days after it is passed.

Government Spending

The bill's impact on government spending is not explicitly stated in the provided text. However, decriminalizing non-payment for over-75s could potentially reduce the cost of enforcement and prosecution related to licence fee evasion in this age group. No figures are available from the provided text.

Groups Affected

• Individuals over 75: This bill directly affects individuals aged 75 and older. They will no longer face criminal prosecution for non-payment of the BBC licence fee.
• The BBC: The BBC's funding could potentially be affected. The bill may lead to a reduction in licence fee revenue if a significant number of over-75s choose not to pay.
• TV Licence Enforcement Agencies: These agencies may see a reduction in their workload related to pursuing non-payment cases for over-75s.

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