UCU Left congratulates USS members on the excellent ballot result. Obtaining 53% overall turnout and over the 50% threshold in 37 branches in a very short ballot period is amazing. It shows the commitment of members to defending USS and throwing out the employers’ iniquitous proposals with 75% voting for strike action and 88% for action short of a strike. There is plenty of evidence that current benefits are affordable at current or reduced costs.
Members have shown their anger at what is happening to USS and their appetite for action. We call on HEC to initiate sustained strike action in the 37 branches over the threshold immediately. We also call on HEC to organise a re-ballot of all the branches below the 50% before the end of November and with a longer ballot period. This will enable them to join further action in the second term.