Bectu backs Directors UK

Peter Kosminksy

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Broadcasting union Bectu has given the recently established TV and film directors' body Directors UK the all-clear to negotiate directly with broadcasters.

The group will negotiate on behalf of  its members in all creative and economic aspects of production, including feeds, terms and conditions.

Directors UK said the partnership would not compromise Bectu's involvement with other workers and employees elsewhere in the TV and film industries, and that the two bodies would consult on all issues that would affect each of them.

"Film making is a communal process and it is the combination of so many different but very practical skills towards a common purpose that makes us strong," said Directors UK chair Charles Sturridge, whose TV credits include Brideshead Revisited.

"It is a matter of great personal satisfaction that at this moment of both challenge and opportunity in our industry Directors UK and BECTU can formally stand together to fight for our mutual creative and economic rights and articulate together the standards which we and our audience deserve."

Peter Kosminksy, the writer/director of dramas such as Britz and The Government Inspector, who sits on Directors UK's board, said: "For as long as I have been working in this industry, screen directors' interests have been looked after by a splintered set of bodies.  Now, with Directors UK in active negotiation with all the main UK broadcasters, we stand a chance of beginning to claw back some of our lost creative influence."

Bectu assistant general secretary Martin Spence added: "Where directors and crew have common problems, they need a single voice.  Directors UK recognises this, and the Agreement helps us provide it. We look forward to developing this crucial partnership."

Directors UK was launched in June 2008 as a collecting society and campaigning body and was born out of the Directors and Producers Rights Society. It currently has over 3,500 members.