New Worldwide offer accepted

An industrial action ballot in BBC Worldwide has halted after management made an improved pay offer of 2.8%.

The figure was based on the most recent RPI inflation figure, which was published after the unions began balloting in response to a 2.6% offer.

An official statement from BECTU negotiators said: "As a result of this development, and in consultation with the NUJ, both unions have decided to suspend the industrial action ballots currently in progress."

In a reference to difficulties encountered during the pay negotiations, the statement continued: "Let us hope that this outcome ensures better communications between management and unions in the future".

The pay anniversary date for BBC Worldwide staff is July 1, and management have confirmed that the increase will be paid on time in July pay packets.