Labour’s election victory signals an opportunity for the BBC to no longer be used as a “political football”, Bectu has declared.
Following Keir Starmer’s historic landslide win this morning, the union said it was looking forward to a “fruitful relationship” between the new government and the trade unions.
“We welcome the new government and the promise of change to a party who recognises the creative industries' huge contribution and appreciates that they're a key sector for the future,” Bectu said in a statement.
It urged Labour to pay “swift attention” to improving freelancers’ rights, establishing more sustainable working conditions in TV, as well as ensuring sustained funding.
“After seemingly endless political shrill surrounding the BBC, we're pleased to have a party in power that won’t use our world-class PSB as a political football,” said Bectu head Philippa Childs.
"It’s essential that Labour understands the key role the BBC plays in the delicate ecosystem of the creative industries, and its importance as an incubator of skills and talent."
In its election manifesto, Labour pledged to “work constructively with the BBC and our other public service broadcasters so they continue to inform, educate and entertain people, and support the creative economy by commissioning distinctively British content”.
More broadly, the party promised that arts and music “will no longer be the preserve of a privileged few”.
Bectu also welcomed the government’s “strong plan” for developing skills, opening up apprenticeships and improving workers’ rights.
Meanwhile, ScreenSkills said it welcomed Labour's recognition of the creative sectors' role in driving economic growth.
“We also agree that making sure that the UK can provide and support a diverse workforce with the right skills and capabilities is key to realising the growth potential of the creative industries," a spokesperson said.
"We therefore welcome commitments to make changes to the Apprenticeship Levy and look forward to seeing further detail on plans for Skills England.”
The Writers’ Guild of Great Britain reminded the incoming government of the urgent need to introduce protections on fair pay, fair treatment. and "robust" copyright protection to fend off the threat of AI.
Directors UK reiterated its backing of a 'freelance commissioner' to represent freelancers on pay and rights, while performing arts union Equity stressed that Universal Credit needs to be fairer for freelancers.
