Labour vows to work with HE unions ‘ as partners, not adversaries ’

Labour’s shadow minister for higher education Matt Western has accused government ministers of “collective amnesia” regarding the work of the “dedicated, compassionate people working in Britain’s universities.” Mr Western was speaking at UNISON’s national higher education conference, in Newcastle, where he told delegates: “The pandemic reminded those that needed reminding that society and institutions cannot function without those working in important services and support roles. “People such as yourselves and those you represent keep the proverbial show on the road, keep the lights on, the doors open and the rooms ready so that young people can access education.” The MP for Warwick and Leamington said that his parents – his mother a school assistant, father a primary teacher – had instilled in him “their principles of fair reward, of the value of public service and believing in education as a tool for social justice”, principles he was determined to bring to bear on a Labour government. In the meantime, continuing to criticise the current government, he noted that in 2022 there were 16 education ministers across both Houses of Parliament, and no fewer than nine held responsibilities for higher education. “Higher education, in particular, has too often been viewed more as a political battleground than a force for public good. Higher education’s potential to reduce inequality, drive economic growth, and support regional development has b...
Source: UNISON Health and safety news - Category: Occupational Health Authors: Tags: Article News 2023 National Higher Education Conference UNION Labour Link Source Type: news