Bill's Demise 'Negative' Says BECTU

The decision by ITV to drop the highly popular programme The Bill has been described by the broadcast union BECTU as "short sighted and negative".
The union said it is an enormous asset to the industry, possibly unique outside of the BBC, and that it will be lost as a result of ITV's "blinkered approach".
The decision was made in late March even though 4.5million viewers watched the latest instalment - representing respectable viewing figures, said BECTU - and despite the way in which the programme has been moved around the schedule and had major changes made to its format.
Commenting on the news, BECTU supervisory official, Tom Bell, said: "ITV says that the decision will not affect its overall drama output but, while BECTU welcomes the broadcaster's intention to develop new short run shows, this should be in addition to, and not at the expense of, successful shows such as The Bill."
He said the union fears that the actual outcome of the decision will be the erosion of good drama, with more emphasis on sport and reality shows.
"It appears that ITV has not considered the dire effect that the closure - or massive reduction of the Merton base where The Bill is made - will have on the wider television industry," he said.
Tom Bell continued: "Over many years the Merton Base and The Bill have provided wonderful opportunities for new talent to blossom, from writers, actors and directors through to camera crews, technicians and costume and make-up artists.
"An enormous asset to the industry will be lost as a result of ITV's blinkered approach.
"BECTU is proud of its association with The Bill, and of its members who have worked so hard to make the programme," he insisted.
"This is a sad time for quality drama in independent broadcasting.
"BECTU will now work with TalkBack Thames to smooth the way as much as we possibly can for those who are now facing the loss of their jobs, on a programme that they love," concluded the BECTU official.
(BMcC/GK)