BBC local journalism strike to hit by-elections coverage
Members of the National Union of Journalists are walking out at 11am for 24 hours.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.BBC journalists are launching a fresh strike in a dispute over cuts to local radio.
Members of the National Union of Journalists will walk out at 11am for 24 hours, which the union said will hit coverage of Thursday’s three parliamentary by-elections.
Picket lines will be mounted outside local radio stations across England.
With an election around the corner, holding local politicians to account is more important than ever. Let’s protect and promote BBC Local, not eviscerate it
The union said it is receiving huge public support for its campaign.
Paul Siegert, NUJ national broadcasting organiser, said: “This strike action will again have a huge impact on BBC Local output, with many stations and programmes expected to be off air.
“NUJ members would much rather be working in newsrooms on Thursday and Friday, but the BBC’s damaging plans for job cuts, slashing local radio and changing ways of working remain deeply unpopular.
“We believe there are ways to protect and promote digital investment without cutting much-loved and valued local radio content.
“With an election around the corner, holding local politicians to account is more important than ever.
“Let’s protect and promote BBC Local, not eviscerate it.”
Those taking strike action work in local radio, regional TV and online in England.
The journalists have also been on a work to rule as part of their dispute.
A BBC spokesperson said: “We understand this is a difficult period of change for many colleagues and we will continue to support everyone affected by the plans to strengthen our local online services across news and audio. Our goal is to deliver a local service across TV, radio and online that offers more value to more people in more local communities.”