BBC BOSSES MISS OUT ON PAY RISES, BONUSES

BBC BOSSES MISS OUT ON PAY RISES, BONUSES

Pay rises and bonuses for senior BBC managers have been put on hold until 2010, it has been announced.

Director general Mark Thompson emailed about 400 senior staff today to confirm the money-saving drive.

He explained that it "was not appropriate" to continue paying bonuses, although staff with smaller pay packets will still receive salary reviews.

"I recognise that the position on senior management pay, and on bonuses across much of the BBC, is a tough message for all of us, but I think that all of you will know the considerations behind it," Mr Thompson said.

"I hope that you will appreciate why we believe that in the current climate, and given the circumstances, this is the right position for the BBC."

The move is part of a cost-cutting drive to save £1.7 billion by 2013, plans made more difficult by global economic uncertainty.

Staff at the corporation's commercial arm, BBC Worldwide, will not be affected.