Following yesterday’s (27 February) informal talks between representatives of UUK and UCU aimed at finding a way forward and resolving the current USS related dispute, we have been advised by UUK that the talks were positive and that UCU proposed a further potential solution, closer to the employer position, which can form the basis of further talks.  Both sides agreed to involve ACAS in the next stage of their discussions.

The University is pleased that there seems to have been this progress, in line with the representations we have made to both UCU and UUK to return to discussions. We are writing now to all staff at the University to ask all those who have participated or intend to participate in the industrial action to suspend their action in the interests of our students whilst these negotiations continue. In return for the suspension of action locally, the University would not make any deductions from those staff who participated in the first five days of industrial action.