A&E Working Time roundup

Negotiations on the Working Time Regulations in the Arts and Entertainment sector are at varied stages, with some areas reaching agreement.

Theatres

The two employers' associations, the Theatrical Management Association and the Society of London Theatre, have reached agreement with BECTU. The agreements include paid compensatory rest for those members who have their daily rest (i.e. overnight break), weekly rest (one day off in seven or two days in fourteen), or statutory meal breaks (20 minutes in six hours) infringed.

The union agreed to a 52 week reference period for the calculation of the 48 hour working week. Members of the Royal Opera House have been assured they will always receive their statutory rest and meal breaks. If agreed with the union Chief Steward, in exceptional circumstances, the 11 hour overnight break may be infringed and those affected will receive compensatory rest.

Negotiations are continuing at English National Opera, Royal Shakespeare Company and Royal National Theatre.

Cinemas

The Odeon chain has confirmed that the daily and weekly rest entitlements will not be infringed, and in order to avoid infringing meal breaks additional staff are being employed to act as cover.

ABC management have said they will work to the legislation and do require any derogations.

At the Virgin chain talks are continuing on working time, and pay and conditions, under the auspices of ACAS.

Leisure

Most members in leisure are likely to benefit from the paid holiday elements of the Regulations and from the forthcoming EU Part-Time Workers Directive. No problems are expected with the rest of the provisions of the Working Time Regulations.