Workplace Report January 2009

Bargaining news

BBC freelance deal

Bectu broadcasting and media union has agreed rates for BBC freelancers and casual staff in Scotland. The agreement entitles freelancers to back pay and has already been endorsed by members. Some freelancers including script supervisors, costume designers and some categories of camera operators are due 4% backdated to October 2007, and a further 2% from October 2008. Other grades of casual staff will receive a 4% back payment from April 2008.

Back payments will apply to minimum rates only. However, according to Bectu Scottish officer Paul McManus: “This will apply to the vast majority of casuals as they are generally paid on minimums.”