In 1946, Leslie Littlewood was elected General Secretary, a post he was to hold until 1968.
This was unsuccessful, but the ABS was recognised by the Independent Television Authority.
In 1972, Tony Hearn became General Secretary, and under his leadership, the union began negotiations with the National Association of Theatrical and Kine Employees.
The two unions finally merged in 1984 to form the Broadcasting and Entertainment Trades Alliance.
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