Lecturers at London Metropolitan University started a ballot for strikes on Monday. If they vote yes, workers could be out on strike next month.
They are fighting enormous cuts that would close 70 percent of courses at the university. But management is facing united resistance by staff and students.
Around 50 students and lecturers lobbied a governors meeting on Wednesday of last week. As Socialist Worker went to press, activists were planning another protest that would directly target the vice chancellor, Malcolm Gillies.
There will also be a monster protest on Saturday 11 June. Strong campaigning, including strikes and student occupations, has saved jobs at London Met before.
Just last year, management wanted to cut 550 jobs. They ended up cutting less than 100.
Of course, any job cut is bad news—but determined action stopped management from doing what they wanted to do.
The experience of last year shows that it is possible to force management to retreat.
The assault on jobs and courses will hit poorer, working class students the hardest.
A victory at London Met would send a message to workers everywhere that if they fight, they can win.
For more information go to http://savelondonmetuni.blogspot.com
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Another year of inaction from our rulers
