Bectu statement on Bectu/Pact TV Drama Agreement

Bectu has this week met with Pact to discuss a proposed extension to the Bectu/Pact TV Drama Agreement, which expires on 1 September 2022.

A decision to reject the extension was supported by all the Bectu branches involved.

Pact has today published new recommended terms and conditions for independent producers to use in engaging crew on scripted productions.

Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“Our members’ priorities always come first and we remain committed to delivering an improved agreement that adequately addresses their concerns. The decision to reject the extension was supported by all the Bectu branches involved.

“Bectu gave 6 months’ notice of our intention to terminate the agreement so it’s disappointing that we weren’t able to resolve these outstanding issues within that time frame. Pact has had months to provide a revised, detailed offer and to negotiate on points of disagreement.

“We have been clear from the beginning that the updated agreement needs to urgently address the long hours and wellbeing crisis our members are facing. There has been some progress but not enough to reach agreement or resolve our concerns about night and weekend working or Bank Holidays. This agreement is critical to driving much-needed improvements to the working lives and wellbeing of scripted TV crew and it’s essential that we get it right.”