Viewers threaten to cancel Netflix amid £174 TV licence streaming shakeup
Many outraged Brits have expressed anger at the recent proposals to extend the TV licence fee to households that don't access any BBC channels, but who only use streaming services. The move is in effort of drumming up money to cover costs for the BBC, who have already seen cuts this week.
Ministers are also said to be looking at charging those who listen to BBC radio, as well as a tiered license fee which could be introduced to help lower-income homes who struggle to pay £169.50 a year (£174.50 from this April).
It comes as the Royal Charter - an agreement between the BBC and the Government which sets out how the corporation is funded - is slated to expire in 2027. According to Bloomberg, a government spokesperson refused to comment on 'speculation', adding: "We will provide more details about charter review plans in due course."
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With over 17 million households subscribing, Netflix is the most popular streaming service in the UK. It's no wonder then, that they're first to go for many opinionated Brits.
A spokesperson for the BBC commented on the proposals: "We want everyone to get value from the BBC, which is why we're focused on delivering what audiences want from us – trusted news, the best homegrown storytelling and the moments that bring us together."
"The public cares about the BBC and this year, we will launch our biggest ever public engagement exercise so audiences can help drive and shape what they want from a universal and independent BBC in the future. We look forward to engaging with government on the next Charter and securing the long term future of the BBC.", reports Birmingham Live.
Chronicle readers responded vocally to the proposed changes, one user saying that "The licence fee should be abolished and the bbc forced to compete with other broadcasters on a level playing field instead of being subsidised by the public". Others encouraged other methods, such as introducing adverts to make up for the shortfall.
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In a national poll by the Mirror, 90% of those who responded said that it seems unreasonable for Netflix users to be made to pay the TV licence.
Many Brits are eligible for a free or discounted TV Licence. This includes those aged over 75 and claiming Pension Credit, students living away from home, those living in residential care or sheltered accommodation, and people who are blind or severely sight-impaired. You can learn more about TV Licence exemptions here.