In Plain English
AI-generatedThis bill would abolish the television licence fee, which currently funds the BBC. It then establishes a framework for how broadcasting should be funded and regulated after abolition, along with related measures to implement those changes. The bill is at the 2nd reading in the Commons, so detailed provisions will be debated and shaped in later stages.
Key Points
- Abolition of the television licence fee as a funding mechanism.
- Introduction of a framework for future broadcasting funding and governance after abolition.
- Inclusion of related regulatory and administrative changes to enable the abolition.
- Direct impact on licence payers (households and eligible organisations) and on the BBC and other broadcasters relying on licence funding.
- Current stage is the 2nd reading in the House of Commons, with further scrutiny to come (Committee stage, etc.).
Progress
The bill is at the 2nd reading in the Commons. It will move on to committee scrutiny for detailed examination and potential amendments before any further stages.
Who is affected?
UK households that pay or may be required to pay the television licenceBusinesses and organisations that use or display televisionThe BBC and other public service broadcasters funded by licence feesOrganisations involved in collecting and enforcing the licence fee (eg, licence authorities)General viewing public (those who watch BBC channels or use BBC services)
Generated 21 February 2026
