Lecturers and unions fight university privatisation
Tuesday 22 January 2013
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EmailUnions and lecturers joined forces today to resist the privatisation of Preston's University of Central Lancashire.
University bosses have announced structuring plans, which would include the institution splitting its home and overseas operations - each with their own bosses.
Organisers warned that the proposal would open the door for private investment in pursuit of profit from the university's assets.
Public service union Unison, TUC North West and the University and College Union (UCU) have launched a public campaign resisting the plans.
UCU head of higher education Michael MacNeil expressed concern over the university's decision.
He said: "Our universities' reputations for excellence are built on the fact that education, not profit, comes first.
"We have serious concerns that private equity funds will come in seeking a quick buck."
And Unison north-west regional secretary Kevan Nelson added: "It is crucial that we continue to work together to defend public services."
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