UCU response to latest global university league table

Once again, the UK has 31 institutions in the global top 200 table with Oxford the highest ranked in joint second place with Harvard University. The UK's other representatives in the top 10 are Cambridge, which holds on to seventh spot, and Imperial, which falls two places to number 10.

Fourteen of the UK's universities in the top 200 have dropped down the table. UCU called for sustained investment if the UK was to remain an important global player.

The US remains the dominant force in the rankings, compiled by Times Higher Education magazine, with seven universities in the global top 10 and 77 in the top 200.

UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'We have heard much this week from the Tories on how we need to compete in the global race. If we're going to get past the start line in decent shape then we have to recognise the important role our universities play, and support them properly.

'It is important that politicians continue to champion and support our diverse university sector. Investment in our universities is investment in our future.'