UCU and EIS members in higher education are currently voting in a ballot whether to accept the employer’s “full and final offer” in the pay claim. I’ve voted to reject it, and to continue industrial action as soon as possible. I’d argue others should do the same.

The offer, for 2014/15, is a 2 per cent pay increase, with an extra £30 for those on the lowest point on the pay spine. It is significant in that it breaks through the 1 per cent limit being imposed on public sector pay, but it is nowhere near good enough. It doesn’t address the pay-claim for 2013/14 – which is what university staff have been taking action over – that’s still at 1 per cent. Current RPI is at 2.5 per cent – 2 per cent doesn’t even match that, so is still likely to represent a reduction in real-terms. Continue reading →