Bectu comments on announcement of Gregg Wallace sacking: “sexual harassment should have no place in modern workplaces”

Philippa Childs, Head of Bectu, responding to Gregg Wallace announcing he is to be sacked, as well as further allegations against him, said:

“Gregg Wallace’s revelation that he is to be sacked following an investigation into complaints against him will be welcomed by those who have been on the receiving end of unacceptable behaviour. Further extremely serious allegations about Wallace’s conduct, reported by the BBC, highlight just how powerless workers in the industry, particularly freelancers, feel when confronted by behaviour of this kind by a big name, and how reluctant they are to come forward.

“ Yet time and again we have seen issues running rampant – propped up by inadequate reporting mechanisms, a lack of accountability and an industry that enables extreme power dynamics and ‘untouchable’ talent.

“Yesterday’s announcement about the banning of NDAs to cover up inappropriate behaviour, together with the formation of The Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) are important steps in addressing this.

“We await the findings of the report into Wallace’s conduct but more important will be how the BBC and Production companies plan to act in future. We cannot allow this kind of behaviour to continue across the creative industries.”

Learn more about Bectu’s dedicated sexual harassment support service.