Theatre pay ballot to be re-run

Postal problems have forced the union to abandon a vote on the 5.5% pay offer to theatre workers in London's West End.

BECTU officials are now planning a re-run of the ballot, with a projected closing date of February 5.

The decision to re-mount the ballot came after scores of members complained that they had not received voting papers which were originally due to be returned by January 17.

Although officials have been frustrated by having to run a second ballot, the delay will allow the Society of London Theatre, the employers' organisation, to clarify details of their offer before members recommence voting.