BBC Director-General Mark Thompson has today announced a pay freeze across the BBC. In an email to all staff, including the corporation’s extensive radio arm, he detailed plans to curb bonuses and hold off on salary reviews until 2010.
In his statement, which went out to all staff in the form of an email, Thompson said: “As many of you know, towards the end of last year, rising inflation was having an impact on our fixed income. Following the sharp decline in the commercial property market we announced that the sale of some of our property holdings – including Television Centre – was delayed.
“A 'Strategic Contingency' exercise has been looking at what additional funds might be needed to cover the financial risks we face. This exercise will look at additional savings which will come from tighter cost control, lowering overheads and slowing down some of our investment proposals.
"I recognise that this is a tough message. However we believe it is the right decision for the BBC to take in these difficult times. I know from the quality of our output every single day that – despite the challenges we face – you share my determination to deliver distinctive and innovative programmes and content."
