Freelances in continental Europe are often paid very poorly when they have no protection from minimum rates, said Guy Thornton of Netherlands Branch. The union should extend to Europe the advice and support is gives to those resisting low pay.
Journalists in continental Europe often have “non-compete” clauses in their contracts that prevent them working for rival publications if they leave, said Terry Brisco from Brussels. It is not always clear whether the clauses are enforceable, he said; the union was told to investigate.
Legal complexities between European countries can leave journalists in contractual limbo, employed by a company in one that is based in and governed by the law of another, said Terry Brisco of Brussels. ADM agreed the union should try to get to grips with the problem.