College head faces vote of no confidence

STAFF AT a Yorkshire college where a third of the workforce could lose their jobs will vote on a motion of no confidence in its chief executive today after agreeing to strike.

University and College Union (UCU) members will decide whether to push ahead with the motion against Michelle Swithenbank, CEO of Hull College Group.

They will also meet to discuss potential strike dates after overwhelmingly voting for strike action yesterday.

It comes after the group, which has sites in Hull, Goole and Harrogate, announced plans to axe 231 posts.

UCU regional official Julie Kelley said: “The overwhelming vote for strike action reflects the strength of anger amongst staff about these job cuts.

“The proposals would be deeply damaging for the college, its students and the local community. Staff feel they now have no option but to take strike action to defend jobs.”

Yesterday UCU accused the group of “bizarre” underhand tactics when it permitted an ice cream van to sell discounted treats on campus during a protest over the staff cuts.

In a statement the college said it remained committed to an ongoing consultation which seeks to minimise potential job losses.

A spokesman said: “We urge our union colleagues to work productively with us through this process and avoid the inevitable disruption the result of this ballot will cause for our current students.”