The University of Cambridge’s vice-chancellor and the local lead for the University and College Union (UCU) have called for all sides to resume national talks on pay and conditions to prevent a marking boycott harming students.
Vice-chancellor Anthony Freeling and UCU branch president Michael Abberton said the boycott, which began on 20 April, would have a “significant impact” on students at what was already a “stressful and anxious time”.
“This cohort of students have already been hit especially hard by the pandemic; now, many are facing the likelihood that the completion of their degrees and their graduation may be delayed,” said Dr Freeling and Dr Abberton, adding that the boycott could bar foreign students from applying for post-study work visas.
They said both sides should return to the negotiating table “urgently, for the sake of our students, staff and members”.
