More than 530 Redditch people caught watching TV without a licence in 2012

TV Licensing has revealed more than 530 people were caught watching TV without a licence in Redditch during 2012.

This compares to more than 680 in Worcester and more than 170 in Bromsgrove.

The average evasion rate remains at a low of just over five per cent, meaning almost 95 per cent of homes are correctly licensed.

Mark Whitehouse, TV Licensing spokesman for the West Midlands, said: “The data released today shows evasion remains at historically low levels of approximately five per cent, with the overwhelming majority of people ensuring they are correctly licensed. In order to be fair to the law-abiding majority who do pay for their licence, we’ll continue to pursue the small minority of people do not pay.

“We do understand some people may find it difficult to pay in one go, which is why we offer numerous ways to spread the cost. Payment options include a weekly cash payment plan, a savings card or a monthly Direct Debit scheme, which can be set up very quickly online or over the phone. We also work with a range of money advice organisations – their staff can provide useful information and payment advice to help people budget for a TV Licence. If people decide to watch TV without being properly licensed, they risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.”

A colour TV Licence currently costs £145.50 and is required by anyone watching or recording TV programmes as they are shown on TV, whether they are using a TV set, computer, or any other equipment.

For further information about licensing requirements and ways to pay, visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk.

Comments(5)

badge73 says...
1:29pm Thu 21 Feb 13

the 530 people should of just shut their door and told them to get knotted as its an unfair tax ....

Kieron's left foot says...
2:43pm Thu 21 Feb 13

Surely the correct procedure would be to tell them to "get knotted" as you put it , and then close the door.
Result would be the same though.Court.

badge73 says...
4:55pm Thu 21 Feb 13

say it through the letterbox keiron, plus no they cannot take you to court with out evidence, same as cant enter your home with out a warrant from the court. all they have is a list of addresses which hasnt got a tv licence, its upto them to prove you havent got a tv.

Kieron's left foot says...
5:08pm Thu 21 Feb 13

Lol..nice one

danielbb says...
9:11pm Thu 21 Feb 13

Badge is correct. By their very own code of practice. You cant just say 'please leave' and they have to go. A tv license collector is just a saleman. If i had any wealth id take the tv licensing authority to the high court. In 2013 i cant believe they are allowed to use scare tactics and threats to get you to pay.I ignore all letters and tv license salesman. I dont even have a TV but i refuse to show them. Its a matter of principle.

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