Birmingham pro v-c’s remark infuriates staff

Industrial action also planned at University of Derby as rows over employment conditions deepen

13 November

Tension within union over whether pay dispute is a distraction, or helpful in galvanising branches trying to halt job cuts

13 November

University proposes to merge existing administrative functions into central hub but unions fear move will add to ‘enormous pressures’

7 November

University says moving employees from more expensive scheme will save it up to £11 million a year

7 November

Malcolm Press withdraws claim to have ‘managed out’ under-performing staff at university