BBC News journalists start 48 hour strike

BBC News journalists who are members of the NUJ Union have started a 48 hour strike over pensions.

Most journalists, including the BBC’s top newsreaders, started a walkout at midnight on November 5th.

The structure of bulletins throughout the strike is currently unknown but MediaGuardian is reporting that all BBC One bulletins, Breakfast and the BBC News Channel could be replaced by short updates each hour of only two minutes in length.

After the strike, journalists are expected to work-to-rule. A further 48 hour stoppage is planned for 15-16 November.

The last BBC News strike in 2005 saw just three newsreaders present in the 24 hour period. Akhtar Khan, Susan Osman and Stephen Cole presented throughout the day.

The TV Newsroom will have continuing coverage throughout the strike.