Film commercials workers say "no"

Freelance union members have voted against cuts in pay proposed by advertising producers.

BECTU announced today that a substantial majority - 79% - of freelance members working on cinema and TV commercials have voted to reject proposals from the Advertising Producers Association (APA) for a drastic reduction in their terms and conditions of employment. The turnout was 63%.

This means that for the first time in many years there will be no national agreement covering the engagement of freelance film technicians and others making cinema and TV commercials.

The "No" vote comes despite the chronic insecurity facing many freelance film/TV workers. A recent survey by industry training organisation Skillset found that nearly half of film/TV freelances have annual earnings under £20,000 - well below the national average.

BECTU will now advise its freelance members on the rates of pay that they should seek when working on commercials.

Members who wish to receive this advice should let the union know by sending a message headed "Working on Commercials" by fax (020 7434 1221) or email [email protected] quoting their name and membership number.