Vice-Chancellor writes to Times Higher Education

Friday, 23 May 2014

Sir David Bell

Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell has written to Times Higher Education magazine responding to an article published yesterday about workforce policy at the University.

Please contact your Human Resources partner or Director of Human Resources John Brady with any queries.

Dear Sir,

I am not 'anti-trade union' as Unison claim. I am pro-representation for all employees ("HR head: union shutout ignited staff enthusiasm", 22/05/14).

First, the University did not derecognise Unite and Unison lightly. It was driven by less than eight per cent of eligible staff at Reading joining either union - a level which had remained stubbornly low for years, with no real signs of growth. This was a serious democratic deficit with hundreds of staff effectively disenfranchised. We gave 12 months notice and there was very little comment, let alone opposition, within the wider staff body.

Second, the University is not proposing cutting the number of administrative roles by 60%. We're strengthening and modernising our operations. This requires a fundamental review of all our support activities including a comprehensive data collection exercise covering the day-to-day activity of 60% of our staff.

Our new independent Staff Forum will be closely involved in this ongoing process. It is vital that all employees are consulted carefully and work with us in detail to get any changes right - not just a minority.

Yours faithfully,

SIR DAVID BELL KCB

Vice-Chancellor

University of Reading