London's West End announces plans to tackle sexual harassment

LONDON - London's famous West End theatres on Thursday announces plans to tackle sexual harassment in the entertainment world.

The move by the Society of London Theater (SOLT) and UK Theater is in response to the wave of allegations that emerged after complaints were made public about the US producer Harvey Weinstein.

Plans for London's theatre land include a new set of principles and zero-tolerance guidance, covering everyone from actors and directors to production staff.

SOLT said the measures had been developed specifically with organizations and individuals within the performing arts industry to prevent and tackle harassment and abuse of power, and ensure that theaters are an even safer, more supportive and inclusive working environment for all.

"These include a shared responsibility for creating and maintaining an inclusive workplace that is positive and supportive and where bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment, is not tolerated," said a spokesperson for SOLT.

One of the ten principle reads: "Everyone is responsible for creating and maintaining an inclusive workplace that is positive and supportive. We do not tolerate bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment in theater and the performing arts."

There will also be an independently-run support line for people working in the performing arts industry resourced by the Theater Development Trust, UK Theater and SOLT.

Julian Bird, CEO of SOLT and UK Theater, said, "The UK's theater scene is one of the most respected and renowned arts industries in the world. We want to ensure that those working within it receive the same due respect and ensure that all our colleagues are safe and supported in their workplace."

Cassandra Chadderton, head of UK Theater, added, "The support from within the UK theatre and performing arts industry to address and enable positive change has been overwhelming. Theater is collaborative and we believe these plans can help bring about meaningful change together."