To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport what the cost of collecting the television licence fee was in each of the last five years. (292908)

Administration and enforcement of the television licensing system are the responsibility of the BBC, which operates independently of Government. The day-to-day administration and enforcement of the licence fee regime is undertaken by TV Licensing, who act as agents for the Corporation.

I have, therefore, asked the BBC's Head of Revenue Management to consider the question raised by the hon. Member for Bath and to write to him direct.

Copies of the reply will be placed in the Libraries of both Houses.