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University and College Union members in post-1992 institutions are being balloted on proposed changes to their pensions.

These changes will have a detrimental effect on future academics and set up a two-tier workforce. The pension changes are another expression of neoliberal "reforms" that are aimed at turning UK higher education into a commodity.

The implications for those of us who work in higher education are a further erosion of autonomy in our jobs, a weakening of our working conditions, increased management control and longer working lives.

Trade unionism is based on standing together and not being divided - after all, unity is strength. For all of these reasons I advise that UCU members in post-1992 institutions vote "no" in the ballot and defend all our pension rights, present and future.

Stewart Smyth Manchester Metropolitan University Business School