Pensioners' angst at free TV licence loss

Appeal for post-election pause over decision

Veterans groups in the Island are appealing for a re-think on the decision to scrap free TV licences for over 75-year olds.

Pensioners will have to pay the annual £145 licence from 1 September, after the concession was scrapped in last year's budget.

Only the poorest pensioners - those on income support - will receive a free licence from that date.

The BBC is to fund pensioners' licences in the UK in future, and the Manx government is hoping to reach a similar deal with the broadcaster. 

Veterans from the three armed forces along with the Royal British Legion and Manx Labour Party are campaigning against the change.  

They want a stay of execution until after September's general election, so the matter can be looked at again by a new Tynwald.

Secretary of the Royal Artillery Association in the Island Willie Kneale is appealing for more time.