501.The purpose of Part 1 of Schedule 21 is to repeal the requirement under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1967 on retailers to notify TV Licensing of sales and rentals of television sets. TV Licensing is the BBC agency responsible for the collection of the television licence fee and the enforcement of the television licensing system. The definition of television sets for these purposes set out in regulation 11 of the Communications (Television Licensing) Regulations 2004 (S.I. 2004/692) covers analogue and digital TV sets, DVD and video recorders, digital boxes and computers (including laptops) with TV cards.
502.The aim of the current requirement is to assist TV Licensing in maximising television licence revenue. The information provided by retailers helps TV Licensing to identify those individuals, businesses and bodies which must hold a television licence. TV Licensing can then take steps to ensure that the individual, business or body purchases a TV Licence, which helps to maximise the television licence revenue provided to the BBC.
503.A Government review of the requirement concluded that it imposed an undue administrative burden on retailers. For example, many purchases are by people who already own a set.
504.Paragraph 1 in Part 1 of Schedule 21 repeals the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1967, the remaining provisions of which impose requirements on television dealers in relation to the notification of the sale or hire of television sets, as defined in the Communications (Television Licensing) Regulations 2004.
505.Paragraph 2 lists consequential repeals which will also have effect.
506.Paragraph 3 is a saving provision in relation to the repeal of section 3 of the Post Office Act 1969.