The BBC has announced that 300 jobs across the country will be at risk as part of restructure of its in-house television production arm.
BBC Studios is moving towards a more “flexible model” which means that short term and flexible contracts will be offered, to ensure the department operates “as efficiently as possible.”
It comes following the removal of production quotas, which had guaranteed that 50% of programming would be made in-house. Studios is now up against the independent sector for all commissions.
“A strong, creative and competitive BBC Studios is crucial to maintaining the BBC’s role as one of the world’s great programme makers – and we are committed to delivering the best content in all our genres. These plans will ensure we can compete successfully in the future,” stated Mark Linsey, director of BBC Studios.
The decision has to be approved by the BBC Trust, but the changes will happen “irrespective of BBC Studios becoming a commercial subsidiary next year.”
