BBC’s Olympics team data missing

BECTU has sought an urgent meeting with the BBC following the loss of personal data for staff assigned to work on the Olympics in Beijing.

BECTU General Secretary, Gerry Morrissey said: “We will be seeking assurances that the BBC will do everything in its power to ensure that the personal and financial security of all of the people affected is not compromised.

“We have requested an urgent meeting with senior management to discuss the implications of what we believe to be inadequate handling of confidential and sensitive information.”

The BBC confirmed yesterday that paper files containing the personal data of more than 400 staff had been removed from an office at Television Centre in London. The BBC has notified the police and the Information Commissioner; a helpline for staff has been set up and staff have also been offered additional advice.

BECTU understands that BBC News 24 carried a story about the security breach before all affected staff were notified of the loss of accreditation data. “If this is the case then this raises a concern about the BBC’s priorities in the area of staff communication” commented Gerry Morrissey.

“BECTU members and BBC staff generally will want to know that those assigned to work on the Olympics can do so without worries about security at home or whilst they are away in China.” BECTU concluded.