Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg branded proposals for wealthier Britons to pay a higher BBC licence fee as “monstrous”.
BBC director-general Tim Davie floated the idea of a more progressive model as part of reforms.
But speaking on his GB News show, the Tory MP said: “While he’s right that reform is necessary implementing a so-called progressive system of the television tax is really showing how out of touch the corporation is.
“We’ve moved well past the days of forcing people to pay for it compulsorily.
“It’s time it feels the wrath of the free market and gets in line with other subscription and ad-based services.”
Sir Jacob added: “I think this is absolutely monstrous. It’s like saying you should pay more for a pint of milk because you’ve got an income above X. This is rank socialism of the worst kind.”
Mr Davie said reform was necessary in a speech to broadcasting chiefs at the Royal Television Society in London on Tuesday.
He said: “There is no doubt that the market has changed hugely since the licence fee was introduced.
“And I think it is right to ask fundamental questions about its longevity in a world that is now full of choice.
“With that in mind, we will proactively research how to reform the licence fee post-2028 — looking at its scope, how it could be more progressive, and making sure its enforcement is fair and proportionate.”
