Television Licences (Refunds)

Mr. Madden
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in what circumstances refunds on the payment of television licences are payable; and if he will reconsider the criteria applicable in such cases.

Mr. Giles Shaw
Refunds of television licence fees are generally available: (a) when a licence ceases to be needed within the first 28 days of its validity; or(b) when two licences are taken out but one was obtained in error; or(c) when an unexpired monochrome licence is surrendered on issue of a colour licence.We have no present plans to change these arrangements.