STRIKE action is looming at Oxford University and Oxford Brookes University after lecturers and high-ranking university staff voted in favour of striking in a dispute over pay.

The University and College Union (UCU) today announced that 62 per cent of its members voted for the action in a ballot. Staff were offered a one per cent pay rise, which they rejected.

Any strike would affect staff at both universities.

Unison members have also voted in favour of striking, and Unite is expected to reveal on Monday the results of its ballot.

No decision has been made as to when any action is likely to happen, but it is thought the unions would agree co-ordinated responses.

Dr Terry Hoad, president of Oxford University’s UCU branch, said: “We have had several years now of falling wages, behind inflation, and it can’t go on.

“In real terms, our members can’t sustain that. They understand the current economic situation but they too have bills to pay.”

“The morale of staff is beginning to drop and that is not good for the institutions, especially when it comes to recruiting and retaining staff. Staff are being given more demanding roles against diminishing resources. The number of students is increasing and this is one of the most stressful jobs in the country.

“Our education system is very important, economically and socially, in all respects.”

Neither university had commented at the time of going to press.