BBC FACES SUBSTANTIAL UNION PAY CLAIM

UNIONS have tabled a BBC pay claim for 2001 that seeks a salary increase that not only matches inflation but will also add £1000 to the pay packets of BBC staff.
The unions are also preparing to carry out an industrial action ballot to oppose performance related pay and to open discussions on a number of work-life balance issues.
The main claim covers most of the BBC, including Resources and Technology, and focuses on two main elements: salary and night working.
The claim for basic salary and all pay related allowances of inflation plus £1000 - the current inflation rate of 2 per cent is applicable.
Amongst the factors backing this claim is the BBC Licence fee increase of 4.8 per cent introduced in September 2000, along with the overall UK rise in earnings, which was 5.9 per cent to February 2001.
This proposal would effectively lead to sliding scale of percentage salary increase, with those earning less gaining a greater percentage.
The inflation plus £1000 figure is applicable to all flat rate figures for example UPA payments for Days Conditions staff, Christmas and New Year Day payments, the floors and roofs of the salary bands.
Currently the night hours are deemed to be those between 0000 and 0600 with different rates payable depending on the hours worked. The unions proposed that the window should be extended and the amounts paid should be increased.
Specifically, night pay should be paid for every hour or part of an hour worked between 2300 and 0300 at the rate of £7.00 per hour and between 0300 and 0600 at the rate of £14.00 per hour. It is also proposed that all turns of duty starting at or before 0400 should be paid at the higher rate of £14.00 per hour between 0600 and 1000 hours.
The unions have proposed a similar salary increase of inflation plus £1000 in BBC Worldwide. The management in the area have responded by proposing a two per cent increase or £500, whichever is less. (CD)