University announces it will close for unions' strike day

The University has sent a message to all staff and students which states:

'In light of the potential for disruption to students, the University has decided to close all campuses on 3rd December. Therefore, no classes will run and no other campus-based facilities will be available on the 3rd.'

University staff first walked out on 31 October when members of UCU, Unison and Unite took strike action. On Tuesday 3 December they will be joined by their colleagues in the EIS trade union. Workers are angry that, as the cost of living has risen, their pay has been slashed in real terms by 13% since 2009. Despite attempts at further negotiations, the employers have not improved the 1% offer.

UCU Scotland Official Mary Senior said, 'the threat of further strike action has led to the University of the West of Scotland management taking the decision to close its doors on Tuesday, and scotches the employer myth that the strike is having no impact.  The employers would do better to get back to the negotiating table with an improved offer, rather than simply cancelling classes on strike day'.