Pensioners angry at free licence loss
Island pensioners unhappy at the loss of free TV licences are being urged to join together to oppose the move.
A public meeting has been called by veterans' organisations and the Manx Labour party this afternoon (21 July).
It's open to all, and will take place from 2pm at the Manx Legion Club, Douglas.
Residents over the age of 75 are to lose the concession from September, a cost-saving measure announced in the Manx budget last year.
In the UK however, the £145 fee continues to be subsidised by the government, after the Conservative party made it a manifesto pledge at the last election.
The BBC has been told long-term, it will have to fund concessions from its own budget. The Manx government says it's lobbying the corporation to ensure the Isle of Man is included in any future plans for free licences for over-75s.
Douglas resident William Kneale who's 84, is among those outraged at the prospect of losing his much-valued free TV licence:
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