Tynwald to vote on TV licence scheme

Fri, 04 Nov 2016

A scheme to restore free TV licences for the over 75s will go before Tynwald at this month's sitting.

Members of the Island's parliament voted in favour of a motion to bring back free licences for the elderly in October.

The proposed new system will be different to the old one though, with pensioners having to apply for a Social Security grant to cover the cost of the licence.

Previously, the Manx Government paid the cost of the exemption straight to the BBC.

All those who are eligible for the scheme would be sent a form automatically if the programme is approved, including those who have already paid for a TV licence since September, allowing them to claim a refund.