In an era where streaming and on-demand is king, some argue that the TV licence – the £174.50 a year households pay to fund the BBC – is no longer fit for purpose. The fact that someone can be prosecuted for not having one is increasingly perceived as being heavy-handed, too.

Yet, the licence fee does fund a public broadcaster which others argue should be protected at all costs.

So, should the TV licence be abolished? Former BBC journalist Jon Sopel and TV presenter Dan Walker offer their perspective, as well as Penelope Gibbs – whose research has uncovered the reality behind prosecutions for not paying.

So let’s cut to the chase: is the BBC licence fee still fit for purpose? Well, to be honest, it’s struggling.

This isn’t a former staff member turning on his old employer. I lo

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