Press Release
DIRECTORS UK RESPONDS TO BBC DECISION ON TV LICENCES FOR OVER-75S
10 June 2019
Today, the BBC has confirmed that over-75s will need to pay for their TV licence, with the exception of viewers who claim pension credit.
The BBC has argued that this path of action will keep some of their channels from having to close, though it will still cost them an estimated £250 million to implement.
Andrew Chowns, Directors UK Chief Executive said: “We are disappointed with this news, as we strongly supported the BBC passing this obligation back to the government — but we recognise that it is obviously a very difficult decision for the BBC.
Even though the BBC have opted for the “least worst” option, we are concerned that it will still mean a greater financial burden for many pensioners, and it will be a very challenging task for the BBC to find £250m worth of cuts. We’ll be monitoring developments very closely to ensure this has the least damaging impact possible on services to viewers and listeners, the quality of programmes and the working conditions for programme makers.”
About Directors UK
Directors UK is the professional association of UK screen directors. It is a membership organisation representing the creative, economic and contractual interests of over 7,000 members - the majority of working TV and film directors in the UK. Directors UK collects and distributes royalty payments and provides a range of services to members including campaigning, commercial negotiations, legal advice, events, training and career development. Directors UK works closely with fellow organisations around the world to represent directors’ rights and concerns, promotes excellence in the craft of direction and champions change to the current landscape to create an equal opportunity industry for all.
Directors UK is the professional association of UK screen directors. It is a membership organisation representing the creative, economic and contractual interests of over 7,000 members - the majority of working TV and film directors in the UK. Directors UK collects and distributes royalty payments and provides a range of services to members including campaigning, commercial negotiations, legal advice, events, training and career development. Directors UK works closely with fellow organisations around the world to represent directors’ rights and concerns, promotes excellence in the craft of direction and champions change to the current landscape to create an equal opportunity industry for all.
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