When considering the report of the Future of Media Commission, Government decided not to accept the recommendation that the TV licence be abolished and replaced with Exchequer funding. Instead, Government decided that the current system should be reformed and enhanced to provide a more equitable and sustainable funding model.
Government established a Technical Working Group to examine potential reforms, including how the licence fee might be reformed to reflect changes in technology and viewing habits. The Group was also to examine other issues such as the current TV licence database, the scope of liability, improvements and efficiencies to the collection and payment process for TV Licences, and possible changes to enforcement procedures to decrease the number of TV Licence evaders. The Group paid particular attention to the need to provide secure and sustainable funding for public service media and public service content providers.
The Group commenced its work last September and has submitted their report to me. I am currently considering the detail of the report and will bring the matter to Government as soon as practicable for decision and publication.