The BBC are set to introduce minimum pay rate for freelance drama crew, following five year of negotiation with UK media and entertainment trade union Bectu. They are the first British broadcaster to do so.
Minimum rates for freelance staff will be introduced from October for drama singles and series, subject to Bectu member vote which is opening next week. Soaps are expected to be included from the end of November.
The proposed minimum weekly rates in the deal are £1,919 for Director of Photography, £1,353 for Camera operator, £1,301 for Gaffer, £808 for Wardrobe mistress and £425 for sound trainee. The rates are 1% higher than the lowest rate paid out during 2009.
The rates are open to annual changes with the BBC agreeing to yearly talks over statutory increases. BBC has also assured freelance staff, that anyone earning more that the minimum will not have their rates reduced.
Standard working weeks have also been changed for freelancers, allowing them to work five 12-hour days, instead of the current standard of six days (5-11 hour) and one six hour day. The new standard working week is not guaranteed for every project, although BBC has promised to increase the proportion of projects with the new hours.
