BBC says sorry as editor hands her back pay to charity
THE BBC has apologised for underpaying former China editor Carrie Gracie and has reached an agreement over her back pay.
The journalist will donate the funds to gender equality charity The Fawcett Society, to set up a fund for women who need legal advice on equal pay claims.
Earlier this year Ms Gracie, who is still employed by the BBC, told MPs that the corporation treated women who spoke out about pay disparity as “the enemy”.
Difficult
She reserved special criticism for BBC director-general Lord Tony Hall who she was “disappointed” in after he complained about the Government forcing the broadcaster to reveal the pay of on-screen talent.
Ms Gracie will now take up to six months of unpaid leave at her own request, using the time to write and speak on China and gender equality.
Speaking outside new Broadcasting House in London yesterday, she said: “It has been an enormously long, hard road to get here. It has involved so much work by so many people.”
Asked why the BBC had changed its position, Ms Gracie said: “It’s a win-win and culture change takes time – it takes time to help people think things through. It’s a difficult issue not just for the BBC, but for employers all over the country and all over the world. And I am glad that this is a win. It’s a win for me and a win for the BBC today.”
The BBC said: “The BBC acknowledges Carrie was told she would be paid in line with the North America editor when she took the role and she accepted it on that understanding.
“The BBC is committed to the principle of equal pay.
“It apologises for underpaying Carrie and has now put this right.”