The Government anticipate that the arrangements for free television licences for pensioners aged 75 and over will incorporate provisions for refunds for unexpired licences. We intend to announce shortly full details of the scheme's operation. We can build on that in future and on the principle of benefits being provided on a universal basis.
Friend is right.
The intention of the concession is to help older pensioners who are more likely to rely on television for information and entertainment. The concession will assist some 40 per cent. It should seriously consider scrapping News 24 and use the money to support BBC local radio and BBC World, both of which valued services are underfunded. Column 506 steps to eliminate waste. We shall make our decisions on the Davies proposals in January and we shall take account of the Select Committee recommendations.