Not sure why anyone should think that this free licence should have a universal benefit, for all older people regardless of their financial circumstances.
Of course, it should not actually be an extra, but should be incorporated (along with the Winter Fuel allowance) into a proper state pension, which should be kept in line with average earnings.
Also, it should never have been the responsibility of the BBC to pay this, it started with and should have stayed with the Government.
But, i really do have grave misgivings about universal benefits.