An online UK Parliament petition created by campaigner Michael Thompson is demanding the Government fund free TV licences for all 13 million state pensioners. The petition argues that many elderly citizens live on the breadline with only the television for company, making it a "double outrage" that they must pay the annual fee. [1, 2]Current Rules and Campaign ProgressThe Core Argument: Campaigners stress that soaring food costs and utility bills make the licence fee an unfair burden on retirees who have paid taxes their whole lives. [1]Current Eligibility Rules: Under the current rules enforced by TV Licensing, a free TV licence is not automatic based on age. It is restricted solely to individuals aged 75 or over who receive means-tested Pension Credit. [1, 2, 3, 4]Petition Deadlines: The latest iteration of this petition runs until 21 July 2026. If it reaches 10,000 signatures, it triggers an official government response, and at 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament. [1]The Government and BBC StandpointBBC Response: The BBC has confirmed it has no active plans to independently expand concessions to all pensioners. The corporation remains responsible only for managing the existing over-75 Pension Credit scheme. [1]Future Funding Review: The Government indicated that concessions will be reviewed as part of the broader BBC Charter Review. This public consultation will explore sustainable and fair funding models before the current Royal Charter expires on 31 December 2027. [1, 2]Would you like to know more about the current price of a TV licence, or do you want to find out if you qualify for other concessions like blind/severely sight impaired discounts? Beloud