University marking boycott requires UK-wide resolution

The union was responding to the interim arrangement reached between Queen's University Belfast management and UCU branch.

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: 'The dispute with UCEA over pay and conditions is UK-wide. On this basis, only a UK-wide settlement will bring an end to the ongoing industrial action, or any future bouts which UCU may be forced to call. 

'The developing situation at Queen's University Belfast is outside our agreed national bargaining approach, but it demonstrates that more and more individual institutions are now refusing to follow the diktat of UCEA.  

'In the last two weeks alone, we have seen a mix of universities calling for a return to the negotiating table, student protests across the UK, and a mass of negative press coverage in major outlets.  

'The position taken by UCEA is completely unsustainable. It needs to understand that this is the final chance to save graduations.  

'UCU calls on UCEA to immediately table an improved pay offer that can be put to members, end this dispute, restore confidence in the sector, and give certainty to hundreds of thousands of students. 

'We are willing to commence these negotiations immediately - the ball is firmly in the employers' court.'