Formal union recognition fits The Bill

Production staff and crew on ITV drama series The Bill have voted for recognition of broadcasting union BECTU.

The show's production company Fremantle conducted the ballot voluntarily after several months of talks with the union.

The union won a 53% majority in a turnout of 58%, meeting the threshold agreed with the company for formal recognition.

BECTU is to establish a local branch exclusively for its members working on The Bill, and hopes to start talks with Fremantle soon to establish a collective agreement.