Allow non-BBC service providers to grant UK TV licences

48
signatures
closedDepartment for Culture, Media and SportOpened 24 September 2025Closed 24 March 2026

Background

The Communications Act 2003 states “A television receiver must not be installed or used unless the installation and use of the receiver is authorised by a licence under this Part.” So far, the BBC is solely responsible for collecting licence fees.

Additional details

I've learned that a large portion of the licencing fee goes to the BBC. I thought this unfair; I watch very little BBC content. I believe the process is out-dated: the BBC has the legal monopoly to collect huge amounts of money through TV Licencing - however today, they provide just a small percentage of the live TV services that are available. We urge the Government to amend the Communications Act 2003 so that any TV provider can issue a TV licence.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 738602.