The BBC has implemented new regulations for suspended employees to avoid a repeat of the controversy surrounding Huw Edwards' continued salary payments following his arrest.
Corporation executives have eliminated a provision that enabled Edwards and other suspended personnel claiming illness to ensure they are paid their complete wages without time restrictions.
This arrangement remained in effect regardless of whether the individual participated in internal misconduct proceedings, which prolonged investigations.
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Revised guidelines now establish defined limits for suspended employees who report illness whilst facing disciplinary action.
The modifications follow widespread criticism over Edwards' continued payment after the July 2023 controversy that resulted in his removal from broadcasting duties.
Under the broadcaster's updated regulations, personnel facing disciplinary proceedings who declare themselves unfit for work will be entitled to eighteen weeks' full pay, followed by nine weeks at fifty per cent of their earnings.
These provisions align the corporation's suspension arrangements with its standard illness benefit structure.
The BBC has implemented new regulations for suspended employees
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The modifications were finalised at January's conclusion following discussions with broadcasting unions, including Bectu.
These changes form part of the corporation's updated Respect at Work guidelines, which are incorporated into all employment agreements.
The adjustments were initially considered by the corporation's board in September of the previous year.
Edwards, the former principal presenter of BBC News at Ten who commanded an annual salary exceeding £475,000, maintained his remuneration following his November 2023 detention on charges of making indecent images of minors.
His legal representatives reportedly informed the corporation that his health prevented participation in disciplinary procedures.
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Huw Edwards continued to receive payment after the July 2023 controversy that resulted in his removal from broadcasting duties
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Documents disclosed that BBC management attempted contact with Edwards on multiple occasions between November 16, 2023, and January 19, 2024.
His solicitors rebuffed these approaches twice, they said: "Huw is a BBC employee who has not been charged with anything.
"In the circumstances, and whilst the case remains under investigation, it is inappropriate both for Huw to be asked about, and for him to have to comment on, what has been set out in your email."
The corporation maintained Edwards' payments until his departure in April 2024, approximately three months prior to his admission of guilt at Westminster magistrates' court regarding 41 unlawful images.
He was handed a six-month custodial term, suspended for 24 months.
Hue Edwards was handed a six-month custodial term, suspended for 24 months
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BBC chairman Samir Shah issued a direct appeal to Edwards regarding the sum exceeding £200,000 he collected following his detention.
The ex-presenter "behaved in bad faith" in continuing to take his salary despite knowing what he had done, said BBC Chair Samir Shah in a letter to staff.
Shah said Edwards had been "living a double life" as someone who, on the face of it, was a much-admired broadcaster but who had "betrayed the trust of staff and our audiences".
GB News has approached the BBC for a comment.
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