ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ

Members of the University and College Union at 63 UK universities have voted to go on strike in defence of their pensions ("Fresh dig at Left influence in union", 3 March). They have made it quite clear that they are prepared to take the first national action in the sector for five years.

The strength of feeling against the employers' proposals is enormous, as has been shown by the results of the ballot and our recent consultation of members in relation to the Universities Superannuation Scheme.

Industrial action is always a last resort, and we still believe a settlement is possible. Nobody wants widespread disruption across the sector. However, university staff value their pension rights and have made their views on these detrimental changes crystal-clear.

We are willing to clear our diaries to meet the employers through the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service immediately. We can avoid campus disruptions, but we need to move quickly.

Sally Hunt, General secretary, University and College Union