Summary
The BBC’s mishandling of its use of personal service companies has caused misery and hardship for those affected and has risked bringing the BBC into disrepute. Its approach has been muddled and chaotic, and its communication with those affected has been unacceptably poor. The BBC has apologised to people affected by its policy changes and its approach to implementing government reforms and is now trying to reach a settlement with HM Revenue & Customs for outstanding tax claims, but this is taking longer than expected. We cautiously welcome the BBC’s commitment to helping those affected, but admitting responsibility after the event is not sufficient without taking effective steps to resolve the situation. The BBC needs to get a better grip of its management of its freelancer workforce if it is to repair its relationship with TV and radio presenters and restore its reputation.
Published: 5 April 2019