Bectu comments on Gregg Wallace allegations: “Everyone deserves to work in a safe and respectful environment”

Commenting on the allegations surrounding MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace, Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“The allegations levelled at Gregg Wallace are very serious, as is their scope and the significant time period they span.

“Everyone deserves to work in a safe and respectful environment, free from any form of harassment or inappropriate behaviour. And in a sector where power imbalances can be particularly extreme, it’s critical that people feel empowered to come forward with concerns, and without fear that their careers will be adversely impacted.

“But too often historical allegations come to light or open secrets are allowed to fester – it’s clear that more needs to be done to ensure film and TV workers can have confidence that allegations will be taken seriously, investigated and dealt with swiftly, and perpetrators held to account.

“The news that Gregg will be stepping away from MasterChef whilst an investigation takes place has caused huge anxiety for those working on the latest series.

“It would be absolutely brutal if this decision were to result in freelance crew suffering the consequences of Wallace’s alleged behaviour, if filming is paused. Banijay should commit to honouring freelancer contracts in full, particularly given that Christmas is just weeks away, and families will be depending on those payments.”