Free TV Licence for Over-66s Update as Government Prepares to Respond

A campaign calling for free TV licences for all pensioners has crossed the threshold that forces a government response, putting the issue back into the public spotlight. The proposal would widen support far beyond the current rules, which only help a narrower group of older households.

The petition, published on the UK Parliament petitions site on January 21, 2026, calls for free TV licences for all pensioners. It passed 10,000 signatures on May 17, 2026, meaning the government must respond, and it remains open until July 21, 2026.