Bectu comments on handling of Gregg Wallace allegations: “the time for broadcasters and industry to accept that their internal reporting mechanisms are inadequate is now”

Commenting on the handling of Greg Wallace allegations, Head of Bectu Philippa Childs said:

“Misogyny, intimidation, ageism and sexual harassment should have no place in modern workplaces. Yet time and again we see that these issues continue to run rampant in the creative industries – propped up by inadequate reporting mechanisms, a lack of accountability and an industry that enables extreme power dynamics and ‘untouchable’ talent.

“Reports that the BBC previously internally investigated complaints about Wallace and concluded that aspects of his behaviour were unacceptable are deeply troubling – is it any wonder that film and TV freelancers, many of them worrying about their next job, think twice about sticking their head above the parapet?

“Unless the industry draws a line in the sand and collectively takes meaningful action, we will be in the same place next week, in 6 months, a year’s time. Historical allegations will continue to surface, alongside revelations that someone knew, but complaints were inadequately dealt with at the time.

“The time for broadcasters and industry to accept that their internal reporting mechanisms are inadequate is now. The whole industry should now give the newly-established Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) their full practical, financial and vocal support.

“Production companies and broadcasters will cite their own policies and procedures, but it is abundantly clear that freelancers do not feel confident using these, and have little confidence that complaints are taken seriously, properly investigated and appropriate action taken against perpetrators.

“It is imperative that the entire film and TV industry gets behind CIISA to enable it to set standards, to be a truly safe place for reporting inappropriate behaviour, and to conduct investigations where it is clear that systemic issues exist.”