A WIRRAL MP has spoken out against proposals to end free TV licences for the over 75s.
Margaret Greenwood, Labour MP for Wirral West, believes that free TV licences are 'really important' for older people as it helps tackle isolation and loneliness.
It is believed that there are around 6,440 households in Wirral West with someone aged 75 or older and figures show that around 5,150 of these households would cease to qualify for the free licence.
Proposals to axe the free scheme from 2020 were put forward by the BBC after the Government devolved responsibility for the scheme to the broadcasting powerhouse.
Now opinions are being sought on a number of plans such as scrapping the free licence altogether, raising the eligible age to 80 and means testing it to the likes of Pension Credit.
In 2017, the Conservatives pledged, in their manifesto, that residents over the age of 75 would keep free TV licences until 2022 but this is in doubt.
Ms Greenwood told the Globe: “Free TV licences are really important for many older people who may be at risk of loneliness.
“Four in 10 older people say that the television is their main source of company.
“Losing their free TV licences would be a terrible blow to older people, many of who already struggle to make ends meet and particularly to those who are housebound or isolated and rely on their TV for company.
“The Government should step in and save TV licences for older people.”
To have your say on the consultation, which runs until February 12, visit: https://www.bbc.com/yoursay
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