What the dispute is about

TODAY’S strike has been caused by proposed changes to pensions covered by the Universities Superannuation Scheme.

Universities UK, which represents vice chancellors, says the scheme has a deficit of more than £6billion. It said in November it would stop offering staff ‘defined benefit’ pensions, which offer a guaranteed income in retirement.

Instead, it wants to shift them into a less generous ‘defined contribution’ plan, which offers no assured pension. The University and College Union, which represents ordinary academics, says the changes will leave members £10,000 a year worse off.