Universities' employer body using 'dodgy analysis' to hold down pay

UCU was responding to a piece of analysis released by employer body UCEA earlier today which claimed that the financial performance of some universities means there is no chance of an improved pay offer for university staff.

UCU slammed the analysis as an attempt to undermine confidence in the industrial action taking place in universities. 

University workers at 145 UK universities are currently engaged in a marking and assessment boycott and are demanding an improved pay and conditions offer from employers.

UCU general secretary Jo Grady, said:

'This "analysis" from the Universities and Colleges Employers Association is a blatant attempt to use the performance of some of our more financially challenged institutions as justification for holding pay down right across the sector. It is transparent, and at its heart, deeply vindictive. If UCEA were so concerned about the financial state of some universities, why is it not calling for reform of the very funding system which apparently leaves employers no choice but to deny staff a decent wage rise year on year?

'Last month, UCEA led the charge calling on universities to make massive wage deductions for staff taking part in a marking and assessment boycott. This month, it is using dodgy analysis to undermine workers' confidence in their struggle. Shameful doesn't even cover it.'