Hollywood writers authorize strike

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 19 (UPI) -- Hollywood writers have voted to authorize a strike against studios, networks and producers if the two sides can't agree on a new contract.

The Writers Guild of America said Friday a record number of members, 5,507, took part in the strike vote -- and more than 90 percent voted to authorize a walkout if "WGA negotiators determine that a fair and reasonable contract cannot be negotiated with the networks and studios."

The current contract expires Oct. 31.

WGA West President Patric M. Verrone said writers don't want a strike but "are resolute and prepared to take strong, united action to defend our interests."

"It is now up to the (Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers) companies to begin to bargain seriously concerning the issues important to our members,” said Verrone.

AMPTP President Nick Counter said the strike vote outcome was not surprising and said there had been concerns about the way the vote was conducted, Daily Variety reported.

"A strike authorization vote is a pro forma tactic used by every union in the country and usually the vote is overwhelmingly in favor of a strike," said Counter. "Our focus is on negotiating a reasonable agreement with the WGA."

Talks are set to resume Monday in Los Angeles.