Flim-flam Four

CHANNEL 4 is the latest media organisation to attempt a copyright grab on freelance contributors. Freelances working on publications and websites for the channel are being asked to sign new contracts, which would involve handing over both copyright and moral rights.

Despite the fact that they would then have no control over how their work was used, they would also be required to indemnify the channel against any libel or other legal actions anywhere or at any time. Channel 4 has so far refused to discuss the new contract, which has been introduced without consultation or agreement, and freelance contributors are currently refusing to sign it. Members taking on editorial work on Channel 4 publications and websites are asked to contact the NUJ before signing any contracts.

No doubt we'll be talking a lot more about this! If you write for C4 publications and sites, let us know and join in.