[UK TV Freelancers] More evidence; minimum wage; unanswered queries; Broadcast

Dear TV Freelancer,
 
Again just a few things to whip through, in another extraordinary week.
 
1. We asked you for evidence of the kind of exploitative conditions
described in the Media Guardian's article last Monday. Many of you will have
seen the paper's 2-page 'Letters' follow-up this week, showing just how
passionately you feel about these issues. And you've been letting us, and TV
Wrap, know who the worst offenders are. Thank you so much for your gutsiness
in naming names; we've tried to acknowledge all your emails - sorry if
you're still waiting. We would welcome even more evidence, mainly to
corroborate what we already have, but please get your experiences in now so
that we can start collating our findings. 
 
You are all, finally, exploding the unwritten rule that says freelancers are
too frightened to speak out; and if you get in touch this week, you will be
in very good and numerous company. All details are on the site as usual.
 
2. The National Minimum Wage. The DTI has said they "are presently
considering a program of targeting minimum wage publicity and enforcement at
key low-paying sectors". Incredibly, they say, the TV industry is not on
that list - but we certainly think it should be, and only your active
assistance will get it there. It's a great chance to call their attention to
this industry - let's not miss it. So if you see clear evidence of the NMW
laws being broken, email either us or them - in complete confidence and
without any risk of jeopardising your job or good name. (Links to us and
direct to them are on the welcome page of our site). Remember, if you divide
your weekly salary by the actual number of hours you work, and it's less
than £4.85, your employer is breaking the law. 
 
3. Our Q&A forum currently has a few Q's without A's. So if you can help
answer queries about working in the USA, books on ENG/OB sound recording, a
full-time production co-ordinators' salary, or the laws that apply if you're
working in the UK but for a foreign production company... drop by the Q&A
forum at:
http://p206.ezboard.com/fuktvfreelancersfrm9
 
4. After the Media Guardian's excellent coverage of TV Wrap, we are told
that Broadcast publishes TVFL's findings on freelance abuse this Friday
(April 22nd). Thanks to the many TVFL members and contributors who made this
article possible. Keep an eye out.
 
There's more, but that's enough for now. Very best wishes, and thanks as
ever for your support,
 
www.tvfreelancers.org.uk

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