To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities if she will discuss with (a) the Department for Culture, Media and Sport and (b) the Ministry of Justice the proportion of those prosecuted for television licence non-payment who are women.

The Government Equalities Office (GEO) became part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport in September 2012 and hence issues relating to equality are the responsibility of the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport (who is also the Minister for Women and Equalities).

The interpretation and application of the legislation on TV licensing are the responsibility of the BBC, which operates independently of Government. The day to day administration and enforcement of the licence fee system are undertaken by TV Licensing, which acts as agents for the Corporation. TV Licensing do not hold gender specific data on prosecutions.