THE BBC must ensure that the gender pay gap is addressed in a “proper, fair and transparent” manner, broadcasting union Bectu urged yesterday.

The warning comes as BBC Studios revealed a gender bonus pay gap of 48 per cent and a pay gap of almost 20 per cent in the first year since its merger with BBC Worldwide.

More than 500 senior and mid-ranking staff have gained a pay rise after broadcast bosses decided that it was unfair for their earnings to depend on the organisation’s performance, which they had no control or influence over.

The change means that in return for giving up the possibility of a larger sum, staff will receive a smaller guaranteed pay increase.

Head of Bectu Gerry Morrissey said that it was “not good enough” and urgent action must be taken to address the imbalance of men and women in the most senior roles.

As the largest union in the BBC, Bectu will be asking for “urgent discussions” about the gender pay gap results.

“Bectu has been pushing to ensure that the gender pay gap is addressed across the entire organisation in a proper, fair and transparent manner and this must also apply to BBC Studios,” Mr Morrissey said.

“The merger of BBC Studios with BBC Worldwide is a crucial strategic move and the impact it has had on staff must be taken into account for its continued success.

“These gender pay gap results – particularly the bonus payments – will be galling for staff who are seeing staff cuts within the organisation.”