LONDON, May 23 (UPI) -- Thousands of staff at the BBC took part in a strike Monday in London to protest plans to cut jobs.
News and live shows were among programs disrupted, but the BBC filled airtime with pre-recorded shows and said there were no "blank screens and dead air" as unions threatened.
The industrial action was taken after the BBC announced plans to cut 3,780 jobs and privatize parts of the public corporation. Opponents said the cuts would undermine quality, but a BBC spokeswoman said they were intended to "ensure a long-term future" for the broadcaster.
Three unions, including the National Union of Journalists, are involved in the strike. Prior to the action they estimated around 11,000 of the BBC's 27,000 staff would take part.
However several high-profile radio presenters turned up for work, crossing the picket lines erected outside BBC buildings.
BBC director of television Jana Bennett told Radio Five Live executives were "keen to consult and want to get back round the table" with unions.
A further 48-hour strike is scheduled for May 31 and June 1.
