READERS have shared their thoughts as the TV licence fee is set to increase starting from April 1.

The licence fee has been frozen for two years at £159 but in 2023 the Government announced it would use a lower rate of inflation to increase the household charge from April to £169.50 a year.

It is the first increase to the fee since April 2021.

When we asked readers how they felt about the price hike, Belle Jones said: "It should be halved not increased, due to repeats. Last Sunday alone was over 20 repeats BBC1 and 2."

Debora N Carl said: "Think we should have a choice on what TV we use not forced on us. Forced debt."

Bob Whittall said: "Just want a free choice to what I watch. It is rarely the BBC!"

Sue Turner said: "Rarely watch regular TV these days. TV was a lot better when we only had 3 channels."

Phil Rhodes said: "It is about time it was scrapped."

BBC director-general Tim Davie has said he is open to a 'more progressive' licence fee and revealed the corporation will launch its 'biggest-ever consultation process' next year so the public can drive the debate on its future.

Mr Davie said the broadcaster is planning to focus all of its 'commissioning, marketing and social media activity' on BBC iPlayer rather than through BBC Three’s linear channel in order to 'deliver more value for younger audiences'.

The BBC boss also said he feels the corporation should be seeking to make more partnerships with major 'tech players' to help fill its funding gaps, like its recent pairing with streaming giant Disney+ for its upcoming Doctor Who series.

Mr Davie added: “The commercial arm can expand enormously… the critical thing is protecting the funding for the UK public service and the World Service to do something that is absolutely driven by the values I’ve talked about.”