Despite guarantees in their 2017 Manifesto that free TV licences for over-75s would be maintained until the end of this Parliament, the Tory Government have yet again broken their promise. Now over 3 million older people are set to lose their free licences next year.

In Edinburgh South this means that 3,830 households could lose their free TV Licence, with the total annual cost across all households affected estimated at £576,415.

Research by AgeUK shows that more than 2 million over 75s will have to go without TV or cut back on heating and food if free TV licences are scrapped. For many, access to a TV plays such an important role in combatting loneliness. The most vulnerable in our society should not have to choose between being warm, putting food on their table or feeling isolated.

The Government, no matter who is Prime Minister, must take back responsibility for funding free TV licences. Please add your name to the petition below.