As you are most likely already aware, UCU has serious concerns about the future of the USS Pension Scheme, given that current proposals backed by the Employers Pension Forum (EPF) will severely reduce benefits paid out to most existing and … Continue reading →

Here is a report from Rebecca Hillman on the Trades Union actions over cuts to public sector pensions on June 30th. On Thursday 30th June, hundreds of thousands of public sector workers walked out of work. As well as the University … Continue reading →

Dear Everyone, Although Reading University UCU branch is not involved in the strikes over public sector pensions tomorrow, I am sure many of you will wish to support those who are taking part in these actions; we know it feels … Continue reading →

It is becoming clear that the information trickling out about our VC’s salary and pension in 2009-10 is proving something of an embarrassment to the University.  Why do I think this?  Because they have had to release a clarification on the … Continue reading →

Now that the departure of our VC, Gordon Marshall, in September is public knowledge the assessment of his tenure will begin. Indeed, it has already started, with some eulogies appearing in the local papers (now online here).  It is true … Continue reading →

One of the key points of our strike action last Thursday was to get our employers to agree on a fair pay settlement for us.  You will remember that we were ‘awarded’ 0.4% this year (actually the 2010 settlement, and … Continue reading →

Thursday early morning was cold and rather foggy.  However, this did not stop UCU members piketing the three main entrances to the Whiteknights campus, in furtherance of our disputes over pensions, pay and job security.     Media (to be … Continue reading →