WGA: 'We don't have a contract yet'

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- The Writers Guild of America is reportedly warning members not to get carried away by "rumors" stating a deal to end their strike is all but cinched.

The WGA has been on strike against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers since Nov. 5.

Media reports saying progress had been made in talks between the two sides and a tentative agreement could be announced this week were rampant during the weekend.

However, The Hollywood Reporter said WGA West President Patric Verrone and WGA East President Michael Winship issued a joint statement to members cautioning them that deal was not a sure thing and more work needed to be done to secure an actual tentative pact.

"We are still in talks and do not yet have a contract," Verrone and Winship said. "When and if a tentative agreement is reached, the first thing we will do is alert our membership with an e-mail message. Until then, please disregard rumors about either the existence of an agreement or its terms.

"Until we have reached an agreement with the AMPTP, it is essential that we continue to show our resolve, solidarity and strength," the guild presidents said. "Picketing will resume on Monday."