As the UK’s largest teaching union, the National Education Union (NEU), takes a stand against Labour over pay, teachers are facing a crossroads. With a fully funded pay rise demanded, the NEU warns of industrial action if demands are not met.
The UK’s largest teaching union, the National Education Union (NEU), has warned that its members will take industrial action against Labour if the government does not offer them a fully funded pay rise. The union’s general secretary, Daniel Kebede, has stated that NEU members ‘expect better from a Labour government‘ than the current pay recommendation.
A Betrayal of Trust
Kebede accused the government of a ‘betrayal’ when it came to education funding, stating that the 2.8% pay rise recommended by ministers is ‘indefensible‘. He claimed that the government’s austerity agenda has already had a devastating impact on schools and teachers, and that Labour’s offer falls short of what is needed.
A Call to Action
Kebede urged Labour MPs to reconsider their stance on teacher pay, warning that NEU members will campaign in their constituencies if no extra funding is announced. He stated that the union will ‘make Labour MPs pay a high political price‘ for their decision, emphasizing that teachers are willing to take action to secure better pay.
A Stand Against Racism
Kebede also addressed the controversy surrounding Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, branding him a ‘right-wing populist’. The NEU had previously labeled Reform UK a ‘racist and far-right‘ party, but Kebede did not describe Farage as racist. Instead, he highlighted the government’s hypocrisy in welcoming Farage to No 10 while pursuing austerity measures that harm schools and teachers.
A Fight for Fairness
Kebede emphasized that teachers do not want to strike, but will take action if necessary to secure fair pay. He argued that a fully funded pay rise is essential for recruiting and retaining staff, and that the current offer is ‘unacceptable‘. The NEU’s decision to hold a formal ballot on strike action marks a significant escalation in the dispute over teacher pay.
