Dan Walker defends BBC against criticism but admits channel is guilty of ‘making mistakes’ | Celebrity News | Showbiz & TV

BBC Breakfast host Dan Walker, 44, has defended the channel after it was announced the controversial licence fee will be abolished in 2027 and the broadcaster will be hit with a £2billion funding cut.

The news was confirmed today by Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries who has issued a two-year licence fee freeze, keeping the cost at £159 until 2024.  

Ms Dorries shared the changes on Twitter saying: “This licence fee announcement will be the last.

“The days of the elderly being threatened with prison sentences and bailiffs knocking on doors, are over.”

Following the announcement, Dan shared a photograph of several BBC TV and radio channels, with the caption: “43p per day.”

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Shortly after, Dan penned to his 746,000 Twitter followers: “I am well aware that the BBC makes mistakes and needs to change, but the media landscape would be much poorer without it.  

“Those three letters are trusted and respected around the world.”

His stance has received a mixed response from users.

Paul said: “Yes but that’s my 43p a day. I should be allowed to choose how I spend it and not be forced into paying for something that I don’t use.”

Charlie also defended the licence: “OK, so how do you fund a public service broadcaster renowned and trusted around the globe? Genuinely welcome innovative ideas, because the government don’t have any.”

And Spike replied: “I don’t get what people’s problems are. I’m happy paying my license fee.” (sic)

Dan joined BBC Breakfast in 2016 and presented Football Focus from 2009 until last year.

The father-of-three also competed in the latest series of Strictly Come Dancing.

However, he disappointed fans last month when he confirmed he would not be joining the rest of the stars on the upcoming live tour, which kicks off on Thursday.

Dan explained in a tweet: “I can’t wait to take my family to watch the #Strictly tour this year, but I sadly won’t be part of it

“I have too many work commitments, and I want to be at home after spending so much longer on the actual show than I ever expected.

“I’m sure it’ll be amazing – as usual.”