SIR: In response to Christopher O’Neill’s letter (Chronicle, July 30) I agree that the free TV Licence concession to pensioners aged over 75, should be funded by central Government and not the BBC.

For various reasons, loneliness and isolation is a real problem for many people in this age bracket, an issue that has been highlighted by many organizations, that offer support to the elderly.

Television is their window to the world and essential for their health and well being.

In view of this, the Government should be prepared to fund the TV licence for over 75s, rather than make many who can ill afford it pay out of their pension.

Angela Shale,

Old Turnpike,

Fareham