Unions to recommend new BBC pay deal

[BGonaSTICK]

Yesterday the BBC met with the unions Bectu, the NUJ and Amicus to present a revised two-year pay offer for BBC staff.

The unions have agreed to ballot their members with a positive recommendation. Last week, the unions were threatening strike action if the BBC did not present a more favourable deal than the 3.5% from August and 2% from next year that was originally offered.

The new deal includes a 4% increase for August and 2% increase for 2008 and applies to basic pay and allowances. There will be a minimum increase of £1,000 in year one for staff earning less than £25,000.

Improvements in London weighting and a deferment of 12 months in any increases in pension fund contributions by staff are also included in the deal.

Stephen Kelly, director, BBC People, said: "I believe this two year offer is fair and realistic. It offers staff and the BBC stability and certainty over the next two years in respect of pay at a time of considerable challenge and change for the Corporation. It also recognises the need for the BBC to invest in its people whilst investing in services for audiences. We are pleased that the unions are to ballot with a positive recommendation."

The pay offer covers staff in the publicly-funded areas of the BBC, including BBC World Service. Pay for staff in BBC Resources and BBC Worldwide (both commercial companies) is separately negotiated by these businesses.