The TV licence is outdated, unfair, and a burden on many UK households. At a time when families are struggling with the rising cost of living, we believe it's time to rethink how the BBC is funded—and how it serves the public.

 

We, the undersigned, are calling on the **UK Government and the BBC** to:

 

### **1. Scrap the TV Licence – Fund the BBC Fairly Through Taxes**

- Replace the separate TV licence fee with a tax-based system that spreads the cost fairly and reduces pressure on low-income households.

- Roll this out gradually, only after new income sources for the BBC are up and running.

 

### **2. Make the BBC More Useful and Self-Sustaining**

We’re not just asking for change—we’re offering solutions. The BBC can evolve into a modern, community-focused broadcaster by launching these new initiatives:

 

- **Court Case Transparency Channel**  

  Broadcast court proceedings with identities protected, promoting justice and public education—funded through careful, unbiased advertising.

 

- **Prison Rehabilitation TV & Work Programs**  

  Partner with prisons to film inspiring rehabilitation stories and skill-building. Connect businesses with ex-offenders through monitored apprenticeships.

 

- **Affordable Housing from Old Hotels**  

  Convert unused hotels into affordable bedsits—first for students, then for others in need. Profits can help fund further social housing projects.

 

- **Local Job Channels & Platforms**  

  Launch regional channels and apps showcasing one-off jobs like gardening or handyman tasks—taxed fairly and tracked for work experience records.

 

- **A BBC Finance & Business Channel**  

  Offer tips on investing, starting a business, budgeting, and understanding tax spending. Empower people to take control of their finances.

 

- **Upgraded BBC iPlayer**  

  Add free international content, premium subscription options, and live public voting to shape programming.

 

- **Global BBC Subscriptions**  

  Open up BBC content to global audiences through paid services—generating revenue from abroad, not just British households.

 

### **3. Reinvent the BBC as a Force for Good**

- **Support ex-offenders, students, and low-income families** through housing, jobs, and skills.

- **Reduce reliance on taxpayer funding** over time by building modern revenue streams.

- **Give people a voice** through voting, transparency, and accessible financial education.

 

### **Why This Matters:**

- **The TV licence criminalises poverty.** We need a fairer way to fund public media.

- **The BBC must evolve**—not just in content, but in how it helps UK communities thrive.

- **People want value for money.** Let’s make the BBC more useful, modern, and self-funded.

 

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**Sign this petition** if you believe it's time for a **fairer, smarter, and more modern BBC**—one that truly reflects and supports the people of the UK.