BBC workers to ballot on jubilee strike

BBC workers could strike during the queen’s diamond jubilee in June after a ballot for action was announced by the Bectu, Unite and NUJ broadcasting unions today (Thursday).

The ballot is in response to a 1 percent pay increase.

The unions demand an increase of 2 percent above inflation and a minimum salary increase of £1,000.

Bectu general secretary Gerry Morrissey said, “We had informed [the BBC] that a direct offer of 1 percent would be seen as a hostile act by the joint unions.

“We now have no option but to call a strike ballot at the earliest opportunity.”

Action could hit the BBC’s extensive coverage of the queen’s jubilee, including a concert it is set to produce.

Strikes can turn the tide on attacks on BBC workers.

BBC managers will also be worried that the strike could have an impact on their coverage of the Olympics, Wimbledon and Euro 2012, all set to take place in June.

BBC director general Mark Thompson has already pledged to cut some 2,000 jobs as part of a £800 million programme of cuts.

The ballot opens on 30 April and runs to 21 May.

Workers should build the biggest possible vote for action.