States reject free TV licences for over-75s

Thursday 20th September 2007, 12:00AM BST.

ISLANDERS will not be given free TV licences automatically when they reach the age of 75.

New Health Minister Ben Shenton lost his amendment to the Social Security department’s budget in the 2008 Business Plan debate by 28 votes to 11 yesterday. Over 75s currently only receive a free licence if they qualify for Income Support but Senator Shenton wanted to see an end to what he deemed a ‘degrading’ means-testing process. He said that for many over-75s a television was a necessity and pointed out that in the UK licences were free. Senator Shenton said it would only cost the States around £300,000. Senator Shenton added that with the three per cent Goods and Services Tax coming into force next year, elderly Islanders would be taxed more than ever.

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