Theatres pay 4.8%

Members of the broadcasting union BECTU have accepted a 4.8% interim deal from London theatres ahead of renegotiating their collective agreement with the Society of London Theatre in the autumn. Negotiations will start in late November on major changes to the pay structure, with BECTU pressing for pay according to skill levels. Talks are expected to last at least six months and a further pay award reflecting the new arrangements looks likely during the course of 2009.