UCU members demonstrating at the Scottish TUC in April this year. Photo Workers.
All over Britain university workers are dealing with the consequences of the current funding crisis in the sector. Some are preparing to take action.
The University of Derby has announced proposals which could mean that about 265 staff would lose their jobs – more than 5 per cent of its workforce. The university has already shut down some courses.
Cardiff University members of the University and College Union have voted overwhelmingly for strike action, which could pave the way for a statutory postal industrial action ballot.
Lancaster University UCU members have also voted overwhelmingly for a strike, in a statutory postal industrial action ballot. On a turnout of 58 per cent, 88 per cent voted for strike action, and 94 per cent voted for action short of a strike.
UCU members across Scotland are preparing for an autumn of industrial action as the funding and job cuts crisis in Scottish universities deepens.
In October, three branches in Scotland backed industrial action against job losses: University of the West of Scotland, University of the Highlands and Islands, and University of Dundee. Members at University of Edinburgh took action earlier this semester. UCU members there are re-balloting to extend their strike mandate.