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BBC proposes replacing £180 TV licence with universal levy

By Drooid · Sep 28, 2026, 10:17 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

BBC Director-General Matt Brittin proposes replacing the £180 TV licence with a universal household levy.
He notes 94% of adults use BBC content while only 80% pay the licence fee.
The BBC’s 2026 report recorded a loss of over 500,000 licences in 2025/26.
He floated an £11-a-month home-internet levy, £48 cheaper annually.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy says the licence fee isn’t finished but some services must stay non-negotiable.

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Story summary

BBC Director-General Matt Brittin proposes replacing the £180 TV licence with a universal household levy.
He notes 94% of adults use BBC content while only 80% pay the licence fee.
The BBC’s 2026 report recorded a loss of over 500,000 licences in 2025/26.
He floated an £11-a-month home-internet levy, £48 cheaper annually.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy says the licence fee isn’t finished but some services must stay non-negotiable.