Bectu begins member consultation on proposed TV Drama Agreement

Bectu has presented the proposed new Bectu/Pact TV Drama Agreement to its members working in scripted TV.

The agreement sets out best working practices for the Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television’s (Pact) drama company member base in areas such as hours, rest breaks, travel time and dealing with complaints.

Bectu submitted a claim to review the agreement in May 2021 and has been in negotiations with Pact over the terms of the agreement since September 2021.

Bectu is now holding a member consultation period from 16-30 November, and will then hold a consultative ballot from 30 November-11 December 2022.

If the agreement is accepted by members in the forthcoming ballot, the new terms will apply to new productions from 1 January 2023 (subject to the transition phase in 4.1).

If the agreement is rejected then collectively agreed terms will cease, the 2017 agreement will fall away, and members will need to negotiate their own terms on new contracts from 12 December 2022.

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“We are pleased that the negotiations process with Pact has now concluded and we can present the proposed new agreement for our members’ consideration.

“The process has been complex, protracted and difficult at times and we thank our reps who have dedicated many hours over the last 18 months and have been determined to pursue and highlight important issues for Bectu members.

“Our sole focus has been on delivering improved terms and conditions for all those working in TV drama.  We will continue to work with the UK’s world-class film and TV industry to achieve established collective terms and advance work-life balance for freelancers in the sector.”

Questions about the proposed new agreement?

During the consultation period, Bectu is holding two all-member webinars via Zoom, at 7:30pm on Thursday 17 November and Tuesday 22 November. Members should use the link in their email to register.

Have your say

Following the consultation period from 16-30 November, the ballot will open on 30 November and close on 11 December.

Members will receive information via email, check your inbox and email [email protected] with any queries.