Emergency motion - E2 Met Office weather forecasting service for the BBC

E2   Met Office weather forecasting service for the BBC

Congress condemns the BBC’s decision not to renew its weather forecasting contract with the Met Office, trailed in the media on 23 August, and to exclude it from further stages of the bidding process.

The Met Office has provided public service weather forecasts for more than 90 years in collaboration with the BBC, because of its ability and commitment to deliver a high quality service through accuracy, consistency of data and flexibility. Businesses, emergency services and members of the public all rely on Met Office public weather forecasts.

Like the BBC, the Met Office is a trusted brand but it is clear that both organisations are facing severe and immediate pressures to cut costs. This is yet another example of public sector experts bearing the brunt of austerity. It shows blatant disregard for the scientific skills and experience of Met Office staff to deliver the accurate weather forecast that so many businesses and people rely on.

Failure to renew this contract challenges the employment of around 50 scientists and the work will need to be conducted anyway to avoid detriment to UK public forecast capability. The vital role played by the Met Office in addressing the economic and societal challenges of climate change is best served by joint public service provision.

Congress calls upon the General Council to urgently lobby the government to intervene before it is too late.

Mover: Prospect

Seconder: BECTU