Latest UK news

Blunkett calls for employer-union talks
David Blunkett has called on university employers to sit down with the trade unions to negotiate pay. The education secretary made his plea at the Association of University Teachers annual reception. Industrial action over pay is due to begin next Tuesday, although the AUT will not be taking part.

Politicians tipped to dodge top-up issue
The main political parties will duck the issue of top-up fees in their general election manifestos, Sir Howard Newby predicted today. Sir Howard, president of Universities UK, said he had been sent two draft manifestos that contained only brief references to higher education.

Researchers find fault with oarsmen
Rowers stand to win more races and suffer fewer injuries thanks to researchers at Imperial College, London. Using fixed receivers attached to members of boat crews, researchers identified faulty techniques such as “bum-shoving”, “taking the catch with the shoulders” and “leaning back too far”.

Ofsted welcomes new boss
Mike Tomlinson took over as head of education watchdog Ofsted today. Part of his remit will be the inspection of post-16 provision in further education colleges. He immediately apologised to teachers for having once said that he did not care about them.