Do you still watch good old traditional live tele? Can’t live without all the great TV that the BBC and BBC iPlayer has to offer? If so, you may already know that the UK’s TV licence fee is going up from £169.50 to £174.50 next month (if you weren’t aware, we’re sorry for being the ones to break it to you).
After a two year freeze, TV license fees increased in 2024 and will rise once again in April, in line with inflation. But as more households convert to streaming only, there’s apparently been a 30 percent drop in licence fee income over the past few years and the government is looking at other ways to secure the future of the BBC.
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As part of those discussions, the department for culture, media and sport (DCMS) hasn’t ruled out introducing a non-live streaming service licence when it comes to review the scheme in two years time. That means Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime and Apple TV users could all have to pay for legal permits on top of their subscription fees. You already have to have a TV licence if you watch live sports on certain streaming services.
After being questioned over its plans, DCMS minister Stephanie Peacock, said in a written statement: ‘The government is keeping an open mind about the future of the licence fee, and firmly believes that the unique obligations placed on the BBC demand continued, sustainable public funding to support its vital work.
‘There are a range of alternatives and we are thinking creatively about options for the future, to ensure we future-proof our national broadcaster for many years to come. The Government will be taking forward the question of how the BBC is funded as part of the charter review process.’
That charter review process is due to take place in 2027 and will include a public consultation. So, most streaming is safe, for now.
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