STV’s Scotland election coverage to be hit by strike action over pay
Summary
STV, a Scottish broadcaster, faces strike action from staff upset over a company-wide pay freeze during a drop in company income. The strike will affect coverage of Scotland’s election counts, as employees protest job cuts and reduced news coverage in some regions while STV invests in launching a new radio station.Key Facts
- Around 120 STV journalists and technical staff plan to strike on Friday over pay and job concerns.
- STV imposed a pay freeze after its revenues fell by 6% last year, with advertising revenue dropping 10%.
- STV cut staff numbers and reduced news coverage in northern Scotland to save money.
- The company is investing in a new commercial radio station and digital projects to diversify beyond traditional TV.
- STV’s chief executive said a pay raise in 2026 would risk further cost cuts and job losses, so the freeze aims to protect jobs.
- The media regulator delayed approval of STV’s merger plans until after the election but is expected to approve them with minor changes.
- STV faces pressure from big media companies like Comcast and ITV after a fall in its share price.
- STV said it regrets the strike’s impact on audiences and wants to keep negotiating with unions.
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