Petition · past parliament
Stop the BBC Internet tax (proposed extension of the TV licence to iPlayer)
Closed
4,579 signatures
What the petition asks
As the BBC knew that online content would be free when iPlayer was launched, there is no loophole. The proposed change is the first step towards an internet tax. It would give BBC 'officers' (i.e. civilians) authority to inspect home computer equipment. This breach of Civil Rights must be stopped.
Also, the fee is excessive for iPlayer content only. Finally, iPlayer can be used for listening to BBC radio (legitimately licence-free). Why should the government further help a multi-billion pound global media company by extending outdated coercive measures when the BBC can simply cease to offer content on demand or password protect it? Too many undemocratic decisions like this have been taken without proper consultation. Petitioners urge Parliament to reconsider extending the TV poll tax.
Timeline
| 9 Mar 2016 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 9 Sep 2016 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
4,579
Status
Closed
Opened
9 Mar 2016
Closed
9 Sep 2016
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.