beeb and tv licence

[dan no1]

is it true that if u do something to your tv aerial to stop u receiving BBC channels, you dont have to pay your tv licence? if so, how?

[mushroom25]

I think someone's having you on. Under the The Communications Act 2003 a television licence is required if a person installs or uses a television receiver to receive or record television programme services. To own a TV & legitimately do without a licence requires you to provably disable the tuning device so the unit cannot receive any signals (not just BBC ones). Of course, then you could only use it to watch videos or DVDs. And yes, you DO need a licence for a freeview box, or a cable installation.

[robbo82]

In summary, yes, if you destroy your aerial or damage it so severely that you can't receive ANY channels, you technically don't have to pay the licence.

[Big Al1st]

There is a rumour going round that you may have to get a TV licence if you have a pC as most PCs now can receive TV and will be classified as TV receivers. Dunno how true it is but it would'nt surprise me Rgds Al

[Mabelcat]

Er the licence also covers radio too doesn't it?

In any case, it is a complete and utter bargain!! The quality of the BBC output remains the best in the world and we should be grateful it costs so little.

(and no I don't - and have never - worked for the BBC)

[Mabelcat]

Bigal1st - the pc issue regarding tv licnece is covered here:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/50813 50.stm