BBC NI presenters’ long-term contracts are among those the broadcaster is threatening to cut unless they agree to cover the cost of a multi-million pound tax settlement, according to reports.
It is understood ultimatums have been issued to freelance presenters in the latest twist in a seven year row about employment status.
The presenters have been told they owe thousands of pounds to the BBC, which settled a tax case on their behalf.
However, according to the Sunday Times, the presenters argue that the BBC had no right to pay the money and they were never made aware that the debt was being paid.
The have received legal advice that the broadcaster may have acted unlawfully, the report said.
The dispute relates to the employment status of presenters who were not full-time staff but instead had freelance contracts.
The arrangement was mutually beneficial as it enabled the freelance presenters to pay less tax and the BBC to save on national insurance contributions and paying other employee-related benefits.
To comply with a new law introduced in 2003, the BBC introduced a general policy of hiring freelancers on contracts longer than six months or worth more than £10,000 only if the individual had a personal services company.
Several presenters, including Samira Ahmed, who hosted Newswatch, claimed they were forced to set up PSCs. However, HM Revenue & Customs became concerned that many self-employed workers using the companies were disguised employees and put pressure on the BBC over its employment arrangements.
A BBC statement said: “We have followed HMRC guidance throughout this process to ensure we meet our legal obligations alongside providing support for affected presenters.”
