With the marking and assessment boycott now in place, here is another chance to discuss how a MAB works, question branch committee on how to apply the MAB, advice on dealing with management and student queries, and a further update from HQ.
The following motions will also be debated.
Condemnation of the Threat of Punitive Action
The branch notes that:
Following UCU’s announcement of a marking and assessment boycott (MAB), the University has threatened up to 100% pay deduction for what it terms partial performance.
Such disproportionate action would be punitive and amounts to a transparently wilful attempt to intimidate those of its own staff who are taking lawful action; such bullying is deplorable.
100% pay deduction would be wholly disproportionate given the University’s own assessment and acceptance that a MAB constitutes a partial withdrawal of labour.
MOTION 1
UCU University of Bradford Local Association calls upon the University to act fairly in its dealings with staff who participate in lawful action by removing ALL threats of disproportionate sanction.
Call for the University to act in the best interests of students and staff
The branch notes that:
The current dispute has been further protracted by the employer’s unwillingness to meet the reasonable expectations of members that the long-term erosion of the value of our pay be reversed through a realistic and just settlement.
That it is in the best interests of the University of Bradford that the present dispute be drawn to a swift conclusion.
That to date the University of Bradford has chosen to be led by UUK and UCEA unlike some other institutions.
That UCEA and UUK are disproportionately influenced by larger and more vocal institutions to whom a protracted dispute may not be seen as so challenging, and that it is therefore essential that the University of Bradford’s voice is heard.
MOTION 2
UCU University of Bradford Local Association calls upon the University to lobby UUK and UCEA for a fairer deal on pay as a means of protecting the best interests of students, staff, and the University of Bradford, and its reputation as a welcoming and supportive educator and employer.