Commenting on today’s strike in England by NEU teacher members in schools and sixth form colleges, Kevin Courtney and Dr Mary Bousted, Joint General Secretaries of the National Education Union, said:
"The fact that NEU members are again reluctantly having to take strike action symbolises the complete failure by the Government to make a serious and credible pay and funding offer to the profession.
“The Government is acting in a fit of pique and has spent the whole of April doing nothing about our dispute. 98% of NEU members rejected the pay and funding offer as 'insulting’, on a two-thirds turnout. Other unions have followed suit, resulting in the whole profession speaking with one voice. All that Gillian Keegan has achieved this month is to strengthen the resolve of teachers.
“On Tuesday, NEU teachers working in England’s schools and sixth form colleges will again be on strike. But it is never too late for the Government to come to its senses and pick up the phone. We have always said that we are happy to meet without preconditions, and would be happy to look at a new, improved offer. We will also be re-balloting to ensure that the campaign for a fully-funded pay rise continues in step with members’ wishes.
