THE decision to abolish free TV licences for most over-75s has been slammed by the MP for Inverclyde.

Ronnie Cowan branded the controversial decision a 'disgrace'.

It's believed the move will affect just over 3,000 senior-citizen households in the district, a figure which is based on household and qualifying benefit data.

Mr Cowan told the Tele: β€œAt a time when a significant number of older people will be relying on these services due to the coronavirus crisis and lockdown measures, the decision to scrap free BBC TV licences for most over-75s is disgraceful and will have a devastating impact.

"Many older people in Inverclyde will depend heavily on TV licences as their only means of receiving crucial health updates on the coronavirus crisis and measures being brought forward.

"At this critical time - when we could potentially see further lockdown measures if there is a spike in coronavirus cases - it is grossly irresponsible for the UK Government to simply sit on their hands.”