BBC report a gender pay gap of nine per cent

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The BBC has reported a gender pay gap of nine per cent, just months after it came under fire after releasing the salaries of its top stars.

The organisation is publishing a number of reports today, including an independent audit of BBC pay; its gender pay gap report; and a full management response to the outcome of both.

The BBC is reporting that men currently earn around 9.3 per cent more than their female counterparts. This compares with the UK’s national average of around 18 per cent.

Despite this, the audit concludes that there is no question of any systematic gender discrimination.

In his review, Sir Patrick Elias said, “The conclusion in the report that there is no systematic discrimination against women in the BBC’s pay arrangements for these staff is, in my judgement, amply borne out by the statistical evidence and is further supported by the analysis of particular cases carried out by Eversheds.”

The audits come just months after the BBC came under fire for paying its top male stars considerably more than its female ones.

In July, it was reported that only a third of women were amongst the highest earners at the BBC.

Claudia Winkleman is the highest paid woman, earning £450,000; while Chris Evans is the highest paid man, earning £2.2 million.

The list comprised of 96 stars who earn over £150,000 a year. Of the 96, 62 are male and 34 are female.

Speaking about today’s audit, the BBC’s Director-General, Tony Hall said, “Fairness in pay is vital.”

“We have pledged to close the gender pay gap by 2020 and have targets for equality and diversity on our airwaves.”

“We have done a lot already, but we have more to do.”

“While today’s reports show that we are in a better place than many organisations, I want a BBC that is an exemplar not just in the media but in the country – when it comes to pay, fairness, gender and representation – and what can be achieved.”

“This is an essential part of modernising the BBC.”

“And, if the BBC is to truly reflect the public it serves, then the makeup of our staff must reflect them.”

The news comes after Lord Alan Sugar, star of the BBC’s The Apprentice, said women could narrow the pay gap if they ask for more money.

When asked about how the gender pay gap could be narrowed, Lord Sugar said, “It can be narrowed by the lady herself saying, ‘No, I want more money. Right, you want me to do that, I want more money’.”

About the author

Alison is the Digital Content Editor for WeAreTheCity. She has a BA Honours degree in Journalism and History from the University of Portsmouth. She has previously worked in the marketing sector and in a copywriting role. Alison’s other passions and hobbies include writing, blogging and travelling.
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