BBC Studios are run by the wholly owned subsidiary
7 July 2010
Union members in the BBC's Studios and Post-Production arm are taking part in two ballots on industrial action this week.
The first ballot, which got underway on Monday 5 July, is a challenge to the BBC's plans to make nine people compulsorily redundant. The union believes that the affected staff should be retained in service and given more time to secure redeployment. BECTU is recommending that members vote yes to strike action.
Talks about the restructuring opened in March 2010. More than 60 posts have been closed - the majority on a voluntary basis - and some 19 people have been redeployed into newly created positions.
BECTU believes that management's decision to serve notice of dismissal on the individuals affected is premature as issues yet to be resolved relating to the move to Salford could have an effect on staffing needs in London.
Second ballot
In addition, ballot papers will be issued on Friday 9 July over the BBC's plans to change the base for staff working on drama output to Elstree. In talks to date the BBC has rejected several union proposals to compensate staff for the additional costs linked to the move. A members' meeting will take place at Elstree tomorrow (Thursday 8 July) from 19.00 to discuss the dispute.
The BBC has confirmed its intention to press ahead with the change of base from 1 August.
On both issues staff rejected the BBC's proposals in earlier consultative ballots.
The conduct of both votes is being overseen by the Electoral Reform Ballot Services; all papers must be received at the ERBS by 12 noon on Friday 30 July 2010 to be counted.
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