BBC licence decision is ‘insensitive’
DAME Esther Rantzen has said the BBC’s timing in ending the universal free TV licence for over-75s is “insensitive”.
The broadcaster, 80, spoke out after the BBC said it would means-test the entitlement from August 1, having previously delayed its introduction because of the pandemic.
The BBC has said that continuing the universal entitlement would hit “programmes and services”.
Dame Esther said: “I think if the BBC had waited until the autumn, it would have been kinder.
“But my main criticism is for the politicians. I think that Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, who said he felt let down by the BBC, was shifting blame. And that’s what feels like a slap in the face to older people.”