Ministers open talks with BBC bosses about future cost of TV licence fee

TELEVISION licence fee talks have begun, the Culture Secretary said.

Oliver Dowden has asked the BBC to set out its financial needs to help him decide on the cost from April 2022.

1

The broadcaster must also say how it plans to make money and savings.

The negotiations will determine how much public funding the BBC and Welsh language channel S4C receives.

Mr Dowden said the service “must evolve” for the digital age.

Most read in News

JEREMY CLARKSON

My favourite show is joyously unwoke & it's best thing I've seen in years

NO REMORSE

Jimmy Mizen's heartbroken mum makes plea after killer is locked up again

STAR GONE

Beloved 70s Disney actor who starred in Return From Witch Mountain dies aged 60

NHS PROBE

Police launch probe into HUNDREDS of surgery deaths at major NHS Trust

He told: "Public service broadcasting is woven into the cultural fabric of the UK, but to remain relevant and meet people's needs in the digital age it must evolve.

"We are today taking a step forward in our roadmap for reform of the BBC and beginning negotiations to agree the cost of a TV licence from 2022 so that it offers fee payers the best value for money."

A panel will also “explore the reforms needed to make sure it sustainable”, he added.

GOT a story? RING The Sun on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]