Skimmy, you morbid creature you. Only watching death and destruction???
Not surprised by the fact you do not have a tv. I don't either, Not since it got nicked in a burglary last year. Licence about to run out so I thought stuff it. Always complaining that 'there is nothing on tv' even with sky. On me own in the week, always busy with this lark. So cancelled the dd for the licence. Took a while to get used to it. Become conditioned to turning the box on when you come in, wake up etc. Takes a while to realise that most is rubbish fed to the masses to keep them occupied. But now. no distraction = clear focus.
All those little jobs around the house get done quicker now as well.
Lost count of the licence reminders/threats the dear old beeb have sent. Replied to the first one. "Don't watch tv, do not need a licence."
Had a licence inspector knock on the door the other day around lunchtime. (when most people are out at work, so that makes sense).
"Morning, I'm from the blah, blah, blah... here's my id...Have you renewed your tv licence recently?"
If I had done, then you wouldn't be standing on my doorstep.
"No, I haven't."
"Ah"... (Eyes light up in anticipation). "Can I ask why not."
"Yes; I don't watch tv anymore, so I don't need a licence."
(Laughs) "Well, that's your right, it's a free country."
Actually it's not. But we won't go into that one right now.
"That's right."
"I see..(he says, looking up from his clip board after writing and giving me a half grin), that you have a sky dish on the house."
Wow, a budding Inspector Clouseau
"Yes."
"Is that in use?"
"No."
We both stare at each other for a few seconds.
"That would normally indicate that you are viewing sky programes. You do realise that you still have to have a tv licence don't you?" (Grin getting bigger).
You presumptuous, condescending ars***le
"Yes I know."
Stare at each other for a few more seconds.
"I also have cable tv running into the house, and a car on the drive. you don't see me driving though do you?"
Smile gone.
"Can I come in just to confirm," Goes to take a step forward.
My word not good enough?
"No."
"It's the only way we can check quickly."
"Stick one of your detector vans outside, that will tell you."
strangely he doesn't answer this.
"It will only take a second to clear this up."
Unless you have a warrant with you to access the property then you are not coming in.
"It is already cleared up. Programmes are abysmal, Licence fee is extortionate. Not watching tv, don't need a licence. How many times have you said to the mrs that there is nothing on tv?"
"So you don't have a television in the house?"
"No."
"Okay."
Then he turns and walks away.
So, I'll let you know when they haul me up in court.
