BBC drafts in debt collectors to enforce licence fee – as broadcaster clamps down on users who dodge payments
The BBC has drafted in debt collectors to enforce the licence fee as part of a crackdown on users who dodge payments.
In November, the Daily Mail reported that one in eight households now claim they do not need a TV licence and refuse to pay, leading to losses estimated at up to £550million.
Over the past decade, the cost of the licence fee, which must be paid to watch live television or iPlayer, has soared to £174.50.
In an effort to catch out fee dodgers and bring in more funding, the Beeb has contracted Themis Recoveries to work alongside Capita – a firm already working as enforcers who knock on doors for the broadcaster.
Themis Recoveries, also known as Themis Global, will not visit addresses on behalf of the BBC but is instead responsible for distributing enforcement letters to households suspected of evading the licence fee.
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People have already complained on social media after receiving letters asking them to pay the fee, claiming they do not watch live TV or BBC programmes.
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Last month, the BBC suggested the cost of the TV licence could be cut if more people pay the annual charge.
The corporation noted 94 per cent of adults use its services each month – but the number of households paying the licence fee has dropped to 80 per cent – with the downward trend set to continue.
It comes as the BBC is considering controversial new plans that would require Brits to pay a licence fee to listen to its radio channels or to use its news website.
The corporation has been assessing alternative ways to fund its operations amid the fall in the number of people paying the fee each year.
Another option being considered is extending the fee so viewers would be charged to stream shows on external services such as Netflix or ITV.
A third change could involve introducing a model where wealthier households pay more, in turn subsidising the licence fee for lower income families.
The Daily Mail: continue reading
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