Hope for end to university strikes

and demonstrates the courage and resilience to report this experience to the police is then faced with the prospect of having a warrant issued for her arrest because she has been treated so badly by the very system that is supposed to protect her.”

The organisation is also voicing concerns that the approach could violate the human rights of rape victims. “This policy will mean that more rape complainers will falsely retract their statements,” Ms Brindley added. “We are seriously concerned that this change to policy will lead more people to say that they made up their report.”

A Crown Office spokesman said prosecutors had a responsibility to hold perpetrators to account.

He added: “In sexual offence cases, the attitude of the complainer will always be a very significant factor in making decisions on prosecution and may often justify not proceeding further with the case.

“However, circumstances vary greatly and it would not be appropriate to lay down a rule that proceedings can never be taken if the complainer is reluctant. The new guidance will make sure that if the complainer is reluctant, the reasons for this will be fully explored and all reasonable steps taken to re-engage the complainer before a decision is taken about the case.” Royal watchers were out in force at Westminster Abbey for one of the most important occasions in the Queen’s annual cal endar. Prince Harry’s fiancee Meghan Markle made her first official appearance alongside the monarch at the event at Westminster Abbey, which the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge attended, along with Prince Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall and Prime Minister Theresa May. Celebrated across the Commonwealth, the day is an opportunity for each of the institu tion’s 53 member states to highlight the positive values of the family of nations Strikes by university staff over pensions could be suspended after a major breakthrough in talks.

Employers and union leaders have reportedly agreed a revised proposal to reform pensions. According to a national newspaper, the proposal has been sent out to members of the University and College Union (UCU) and will be considered today at a meeting of the UCU’S higher education committee and at a separate meeting of branch representatives.

Universities UK (UUK) is reportedly in the process of consulting with Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) employers. If agreed by all parties, the proposed reform would be introduced as part of a three-year transitional arrangement.