TV licence warning after 200 caught

NEARLY 200 young adults were caught watching TV or BBC iPlayer without a TV licence in the past year in Cardiff, according to new figures.

The figures – relating to people between the ages of 18 and 25 – were released by TV Licensing.

With more than 65,000 students at Cardiff universities, the organisation warned students they could face prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000 if they are caught watching live TV, or BBC programmes on iPlayer, without a licence.

Research suggests the number of students taking a TV to university has risen from 23% to 27% since last year.

If students live in halls of residence and watch live TV or BBC iPlayer programmes in their room, they will need to be covered by a TV licence.

Students in shared houses will also require their own licence if they use a TV or device in their room and have a separate tenancy agreement.

Fay Jones, TV Licensing spokeswoman in Wales, said: “Every year there are myths which circulate around campus about when you do and don’t need a licence.

“If you’re watching live TV on any device, including mobiles and tablets, or watch catch up programmes on BBC iPlayer, you need to be covered by a TV licence.”

Students can check if they need a licence at www.tvlicensing.co.uk/studentinfo