MPs to resume debate on higher public television and radio licence fees

MPs will resume debate on a government proposal to increase public television and radio licence fees on Wednesday. Tuesday’s debate on the bill in its second reading was adjourned at midnight with dozens more deputies intending to table proposed amendments. The bill would increase the licence fee for Czech Television by fifteen crowns to 150 crowns per month and for Czech Radio by ten crowns to 55 crowns per month. There is also a provision according to which households should pay for receiving broadcasts by all possible means including via the internet, smartphones, tablets or computers, which would significantly increase the number of payers. The opposition ANO party is strictly against licence fees for public broadcasters on principle and has promised to do away with them if it wins the 2025 general elections and gets to form a government.