2000 caught dodging TV licence fee

Almost 2000 licence evaders were snared in Edinburgh in the first half of this year, according to new figures.

The statistics released by TV Licencing revealed that more than 30,900 people were caught watching television without a licence.

More than 6000 were caught illegally viewing in Glasgow between January and June.

The average evasion rate remains at just over five per cent, officials said, meaning that well over nine in ten 
properties are correctly licensed.

Fergus Reid, TV Licensing’s Scotland spokesman, said: “Today’s figures paint a very positive picture as the vast majority of people in the UK continue to pay their licence fee.

“If people decide to watch TV without being properly licensed, they risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1000.”

A colour TV licence currently costs £145.50 a year.