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by rounce 2707 days ago
> Imagine if Netflix was claimed to be 'mandatory' and they could enter your home to check you're really not using Netflix.

Poor analogy, Netflix would also have to be owned but not funded by US Govt.

TV licence people can't exactly kick in the front door and search you for broadcast reception equipment, they're not the police, more like slightly more official bailiffs. They may threaten you with all sorts of legal toil but their powers are quite limited, they rely on their reputation to scare you into submission.
2 comments
nailer 2707 days ago
> Netflix would also have to be owned but not funded by US Govt.

Well yes, that's part of the scenario. That doesnt dismiss the point there's a news and entertainment company that thinks everyone watches their content and therefore sends them angry threats

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chrisseaton 2707 days ago
> more like slightly more official bailiffs

No they're _less_ official than bailiffs.

Bailiffs can force their way into your home to take your property to pay for some fines and taxes.

A TV licence person can do absolutely nothing - they're just a normal member of the public.

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rounce 2706 days ago
Don't bailiffs need to have been allowed to cross the threshold of the premises (ie. you open the door to them and then they prevent you from closing the door)? It's illegal for them to kick your door in.

I mean't more official in that TV licence people work for a government owned organisation. Though I hadn't realised they didn't even have bailiff powers.

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chrisseaton 2706 days ago
> It's illegal for them to kick your door in

Not true in all cases!

https://www.gov.uk/your-rights-bailiffs

> Bailiffs are allowed to force their way into your home to collect unpaid criminal fines, Income Tax or Stamp Duty, but only as a last resort.

If these circumstances don't apply they can take things from outside your home, such as your car.

TV Licensing People certainly can't drive off with your car.

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rounce 2706 days ago
I stand corrected, gov.uk is so easy to use I've really no excuse for not looking this up earlier.

> TV Licensing People certainly can't drive off with your car.

It would make for a very interesting Top Gear replacement if they could though.

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