BBC journalists accept 1% pay rise

BBC journalists have accepted a 1% pay rise, calling off strike action that was threatened for June.

The pay offer for 2012-13 will include a minimum increase of £400 per employee.

The agreement is a joint deal between the Broadcasting, Entertainment, Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU) and the National Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Michelle Stainstreet, general secretary at the NUJ, said: “The BBC's stance on pay is disappointing, but the package of concessions on other pay-related issues and appraisals addresses key concerns for journalists across the BBC.”

Gerry Morrissey, general secretary at BECTU, added: “There is absolutely no question that the BBC’s handling of this year’s pay talks will continue to anger staff and, what is more, our members, not least in London, will suffer financially.

“However, from the soundings we have taken, viewed nationally, pay was not the primary concern and in light of this we doubted the success of strike action over the Jubilee weekend.”