Bolton College could face industrial action in row over jobs and pay

The college has announced plans to make 47 staff redundant and intends to impose controversial new contracts for all teaching staff that remain in post. The new contracts will see:

• pay cuts of £7,000 a year
• increased workloads for all teaching staff
• annual leave reduced.

The union accused the college of trying to deliver teaching on the cheap, with those staff who survive the jobs cull having to work harder and longer for less pay.

UCU regional official, Lynn Collins, said: 'These plans are little more than an attempt to deliver teaching on the cheap and have succeeded only in demoralising staff at the college. As well as slashing jobs the college is effectively cutting pay in return for longer working hours with fewer days annual leave.

'The college's proposals would have a devastating effect on staff and students' education. Our members will now consider their next steps. Strike action remains very much on the cards, especially if the college does not withdraw its threat of compulsory dismissals and pay cuts.'