MTV recognition order

MTV is the first UK broadcaster to be ordered to carry out a union recognition ballot.

Those working at the Camden-based music broadcaster are to balloted on whether they want BECTU recognition following a ruling by the Central Arbitration Committee (CAC).

If the ballot approves BECTU recognition the union will have collective bargaining rights for pay, working hours and holidays as well as rights to information and consultation at MTV Networks Europe.

For success BECTU needs 40% of MTV staff and regular freelances to participate in the ballot and to achieve a simple majority in favour of recognition.

The CAC ruling that the ballot is conducted is being held under the 1999 Employment Relations Act, and follows MTV refusing to accept voluntary recognition of BECTU.

Two years of campaigning and BECTU recruitment at MTV has lead the union to take legal action against the company.