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It is depressing to see that the government is trying to reintroduce performance-related pay - something that failed absolutely the last time it was tried because it is so inappropriate to the work that we do.

The "something for something" approach of education secretary David Blunkett should entail rewards for the years of "somethings" we have delivered in line with the government agenda - not a divisive scheme that is more demoralising than motivating.

However, there is a proposal in the Bett report that might unite employers and staff and meet government needs - the payment of the proposed ?1,000 rise (inflation-linked) for membership in the Institute for Learning and Teaching, though of course it will not repair the 30 per cent shortfall in pay identified by Bett.

As yet more expansion is sought from us, the sector faces strife and disruption because opposition to performance-related pay among Natfhe members is heartfelt.

Jill Jones
Chair, Higher Education Committee
Natfhe