Lecturers vote to strike in row over pensions and pay

OVER a million students face disruption as academics from 56 universities signed up to strike over their pay and pension.

Last night the University and College Union (UCU) announced that lecturers voted to back strike action in two ballots over pensions and pay and working conditions.

The ballot is valid for six months. The union is required by law to give two weeks’ notice before striking.

UCU has been locked in a battle with Universities UK (UUK), which represents vice-chancellors, over proposed pension reforms to address a reported deficit and rising benefit costs.

The row centred on proposals that would change the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) from a “defined benefit” scheme, which gives workers a guaranteed income in their retirement, to a “defined contribution” scheme, in which pensions are subject to fluctuations in the stock market.

Of the 69 universities that were balloted for strike action, based on results so far, 56 universities and colleges could stage walkouts. UCU’S higher education committee is due to meet today to decide the next steps.

Jo Grady, the UCU general secretary, said: “The results can only be interpreted as clear support for strike action. The ballots reflect just how unhappy and angry staff are at the state of higher education in the UK.”

She added: “If they choose to ignore this message from their staff then strike action looks inevitable.”

UUK said: “Employers remain open to further talks with UCU to discuss how the dispute can be resolved without industrial action, which would be damaging for staff and students.

“Recent negotiations concluded with no cuts to USS pension benefits, and employers paying the majority of the extra contributions required under pensions law.”