Councillor Sean Halsall has written to Southport MP Damien Moore, calling on him to oppose plans to scrap free licence fees for over 75s.
Cllr Halsall, who represents Kew ward, says many Southport constituents “will be worse off due to this callous policy.”
Free TV Licences for all over 75s will come to an end in August 2020. Anyone over 75 but receiving Pension Credit can continue receiving a free licence.
Age UK said it was “bitterly disappointed with the BBC’s decision”, but added, “In reality the principal responsibility lies with the government.”
Cllr Halsall’s letter reads: “I’m writing to you to ask that reject and voice opposition to the plans to scrap the free TV license for over 75s.
“Many of the constituents on Southport will be worse off due to this callous policy
“For many access to the TV can be their only window to the outside world and offers a lifeline to lonely elderly people. This [is] highlighted more so with the backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic. When we asked those most vulnerable and elderly to remain indoors and avoid contact with family. This will have left many with their television as a lifeline for them.
“These people should be looked after, they are out parents and grandparents, and one day we will all be in that position, some of us relying on small mercies such as access to entertainment and information to keep loneliness at bay.”
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