UCU suspend industrial action in relation to its dispute over the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS)

UCL is very pleased to advise that the University and College Union (UCU) today (20 November) confirmed a suspension of all industrial action called by it in relation to its dispute over the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).

That suspension shall have effect from 20th November 2014 until after 15th January 2015.

The suspension has been agreed between UCU and Universities UK (which represents the employer members of the USS) in order to allow a period of intense negotiation with the aim of seeking an agreement on reforms to the USS. We are pleased at this development and hope that this gives both parties the opportunity to explore an agreed solution in the negotiations.

Under the terms of UCU's agreement with UUK, the 66 universities affected by the dispute have been asked to confirm that they will not withhold pay of those staff who participated in the marking and assessment boycott between 6 and 19 November on the condition that those staff make up all work missed in a reasonable period of time. At UCL we did not withhold pay at the time that the suspension was announced but would expect that those staff who participated in the marking and assessment boycott will make up all work missed in a reasonable period of time.

We are delighted that as a result of the suspension the impact of the boycott on our students should be able to be remedied. We are very hopeful that the suspension of the industrial action will now allow time for a joint proposal for reform that offers an affordable and sustainable pension scheme that remains attractive for members.

Nigel Waugh, Director of Human Resources