Journalists at STV have walked out in a dispute over proposed job cuts and changes to the broadcaster's news programmes in the north of Scotland. The industrial action follows STV's announcement of plans to cut the north edition of its flagship News At 6 programme, putting 28 editorial roles at risk.
The proposed changes would see a single STV News At 6 programme produced and presented from Glasgow, with around 30% of content specific to the north of Scotland area. Members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) overwhelmingly backed strike action, with 94% voting for a walkout in a ballot last month.
Speaking at Holyrood, Culture Secretary Angus Robertson expressed concern about the negative impact on news provision across Scotland if the plans go ahead. He acknowledged that STV had reconsidered some proposals but urged against further reductions in news reporting or redundancies of Scottish-based staff. NUJ general secretary Laura Davidson, present at the picket line in Glasgow, said the cuts would affect both staff and the quality of journalism consumed by viewers.
Ofcom has launched a consultation for public views on the changes, which closes on Friday January 9. Davidson encouraged viewers to submit responses, emphasising the importance of preserving local news. The NUJ has branded the plans as bad for viewers and journalism in the north of Scotland.
An STV spokesperson said the action was ill-timed as consultation continues and significant progress has been made, with most of the 28 affected roles addressed through voluntary redundancy or redeployment. The company added that Ofcom has supported its proposals.
