Industrial action planned by the University and College Union (UCU) has been suspended pending a consultative ballot of the membership.  The boycott of marking and assessment was in opposition to proposed reform of the USS pension scheme.

The suspension of the threat of industrial action will continue until the outcome of the ballot is known on 29 January 2015.

The boycott had been suspended before Christmas while the union engaged in negotiations with the employers.  Action was due to resume but following the talks, a new offer has been tabled and will now be put to UCU members.

Improvements offered: 

  •  An improvement in the accrual rate from 1/80th to 1/75th
  •  An increase in the earnings cap to £55,000
  •  A guarantee that the employers will maintain an increased contribution (from 16% to 18% of salary) for two further valuations for at least the next five years 
  • An agreement with the employers that any improvement in the USS funding position should be used to improve benefits rather than be used by USS for further de-risking
  • An agreement to continue a review of the contested funding methodology adopted by USS.

If the majority of UCU members vote yes to accept the proposals, the union will end the dispute. If a no vote is favoured by members, the boycott will be reinstated.

The ballot opened last Friday (16 January) and will close on Monday 26 January at 12 noon. Emails will be sent by The Electoral reform Society to UCU members with instructions on how to vote in the ballot.

Director of HR at the University of Glasgow, Christine Barr said: “The University of Glasgow welcomes this development and is encouraged that consultation continues with you as staff potentially affected by the proposed reform.” 

Should you have any questions please contact your local College or University Services HR team.

First published: 19 January 2015

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