Bectu responds to report that BBC plans to outsource jobs
Head of Bectu Philippa Childs responding to reports that the BBC plans to outsource jobs:
“The BBC is at the heart of the government’s creative industry strategy – outsourcing and potentially offshoring large numbers of jobs runs totally counter to the growth agenda.
“The BBC was created as a public service broadcaster on the Reithian principles of informing, educating and entertaining the public. It is a uniquely British institution that is cherished at home and is envied across the world. It is at the centre of the ecosystem of the creative industries and provides opportunities for the creative workforce to develop world class skills.”
“The suggestion that large functions of the BBC should be outsourced and potentially offshored runs counter to the public interest and is hugely damaging to the unique role the BBC plays in UK PLC. We are extremely angry that the BBC has been developing these proposals without any discussion with the trade unions and that Bectu has only become aware of the project due to a leak.
“Ahead of a crucial Charter Review, it is essential that the BBC makes clear that it is committed to supporting UK jobs. Bectu has consistently argued for fair funding for the BBC, and will continue to do so, but this news plays into the hands of those who want to undermine the BBC and see it shorn of its public service responsibilities.”