UCU members in English colleges to strike on 14 October

The union's further education committee met on Friday to consider the results of a member consultation on the 2014/15 pay offer. Eight-five per cent of members who participated in the e-ballot voted to reject the 1% pay offer and support strike action in an effort to secure an improved deal.
 
The committee voted in favour of UCU members in colleges in England taking the action on 14 October together with other public sector unions. The committee also voted to determine dates for further targeted and national strike action when it next meets on 17 October.
 
UCU head of bargaining, Michael MacNeil, said: 'Our members have made it quite clear that they are not prepared to accept another real-terms pay cut. The cost of living continues to rise but pay just isn't matching it.
 
'Our members have seen their pay fall by 15% in real terms since 2009 and have also been hit with higher monthly pension contributions. We will be joining our colleagues in other public sector unions because Britain needs a pay rise.'