In response to UCU’s comments on the decision made by the USS Joint Negotiating Committee, a spokesperson for USS Employers said:
“Throughout the JNC process, Universities UK representatives repeatedly told UCU they would be willing to put alternative proposals to employers to seek their views, and that offer still stands.
“Employers have not yet formally received an alternative proposal from UCU, and the JNC’s decision was passed by the casting vote of the Chair after UCU declined to table their benefit reform suggestions formally at the meeting. Up until this point, UCU has not even allowed UUK to discuss their suggestions publicly, and it remains unclear whether the suggestions have the support of UCU members.
“The upcoming member consultation on the UUK package is important and open – and could lead to the employers’ proposals being amended. Employers will still consider alternative benefit structures and formulations, provided they are viable, affordable and implementable.”