More than 200,000 people across the UK were caught evading their TV licence during the first half of 2010. As well as Wandsworth’s 831 evaders, neighbouring borough’s Merton and Lambeth came in at 471 and 971 respectively.
 
However, TV Licensing spokesperson Ian Fannon says: “The vast majority of people in Wandsworth pay their licence fee, and to be fair to those who pay, we have to be firm with those who attempt to get away without paying.
 
“We take TV Licence evasion very seriously and, while we give people every opportunity to pay, we will not hesitate to prosecute if people continue to break the law.
 
“We do understand that some people may find it difficult to pay their licence fee in one go, which is why we offer numerous ways to spread the cost, including monthly Direct Debit, which can be set up very quickly online, and a weekly cash payment plan.”
 
A colour TV licence currently costs £145.50 and is required by anyone watching or recording TV programmes as they are shown on TV, whether they are using a TV set, computer, or any other equipment. Anyone watching TV illegally risks prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000.
 
For further information on how and where to pay go to www.tvlicensing.co.uk/info

August 23, 2010