MEMBERS of a group representing female BBC employees have welcomed a new investigation by a human rights watchdog over suspected past pay discrimination at the corporation, but added that the it still has a “very long way” to go.
The Equality And Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said it suspects that “some women at the organisation have not received equal pay for equal work”. Its investigation will look at the period from January 1, 2016, and is due to be completed by the end of 2019, it said.
BBC Women, a campaign group within the corporation consisting of journalists including Kirsty Wark, Jane Garvey, Louise Minchin and Mishal Husain, said they “welcome” the EHRC’s investigation into pay practices at the BBC.
The group’s statement said: “There are still hundreds of women trapped in prolonged equal pay grievances with little sign of resolution in line with equality law. Some grievances are still unresolved after two years. New complaints are lodged every week.
“HR appears to have a policy never to use the words ‘equal pay’ or apply the legal framework for assessing claims. We believe only a small number of cases have been settled, typically on the brink of legal action or going public.
“Even then, the BBC is extremely reluctant to admit to any sex discrimination. There is still a very long way for the BBC to go.”
A BBC statement said the corporation has “now resolved more than 85%” of pay queries from members of staff over the past two years. It said: “Given the public focus on this important issue we understand why the commission is looking for assurance on equal pay and we welcome it.
“We are confident the BBC can provide that assurance and indeed go beyond and demonstrate our commitment to be a model for others to follow in this area as a result of our reform programme.
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