Harriet Harman MP, Labour’s Shadow Culture Secretary, responding to questions about Labour’s position on proposed amendments in the Deregulation Bill covering decriminalisation of non-payment of the BBC’s licence fee, said:

“The BBC is an institution of enormous importance to our culture.  It is loved in this country and admired around the world.  We need to maintain funding for the BBC.  But no one wants to see people in prison for non-payment of the television licence fee. 

“That’s why Labour will support these amendments on decriminalisation, but on condition that any decision is taken after a comprehensive review so that the funding of the BBC is not undermined. 

“Labour believes the licence fee is key to the independence of the BBC and remains the best funding model.”

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