Bectu responds to Chancellor’s Spring Statement

Responding to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement, Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“There was very little for the creative industries or for freelancers in this Spring Statement with the focus on other areas of the economy.

“Uncertainty in the wider economy will be felt acutely by many Bectu members, especially freelancers. Many in the creative industries continue to face low pay, poor conditions and precarious employment, so are really feeling the pinch. For freelancers who work in film and TV the current state of the industry is particularly precarious.

“With the creative industries a growth priority for the government I would hope to see some positive measures in future statements that will recognise the huge contribution of workers across the creative industries, that will address the current commissioning challenges and support freelancers. In particular we would like to see a Freelance Commissioner appointed to work across Government to champion workers and ensure support where necessary.”