UK TV licence fee to rise to £180 in 2026, sparking fears of mass cancellations and £50M revenue loss.

The UK's TV licence fee is projected to rise to around £180 in 2026, following CPI-based adjustments, sparking concerns that thousands of households may cancel their licences ahead of the increase. Despite no official confirmation, reports indicate a 300,000 drop in licence payments since 2023-24, costing the BBC an estimated £50 million. The government confirmed CPI-linked increases will continue for at least two more years, while the BBC’s funding model remains under review amid debates over its fairness and enforcement.