King’s UCU cancels today’s pickets and teach outs due to the coronavirus situation

On Thursday, King’s UCU took the decision to cancel picket lines and teach outs on Friday 13 March in light of the developing coronavirus situation.

The strike and digital picket continue.

Strand’s cancelled teach outs

Their decision comes as the World Health Organisation yesterday declared the disease a pandemic, and the UK’s Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance today said the real number of infections in the UK is likely to be between 5,000 and 10,000 cases (compared to approximately 590 formally identified cases).

King’s UCU said the decision is “in line with many other branches”, adding they “don’t take this decision lightly but want to err on the side of caution and protect those most vulnerable to this illness.”

Older people and those with pre-existing health conditions are thought to be more likely to experience severe symptoms if they catch coronavirus.

Members of the King’s community may themselves be more vulnerable to the illness, or may have friends and family members who are in that position.

Before King’s UCU’s decision, there has been a strong presence at teach outs and on the picket lines.

Some inventive posters have been seen.

And of course the many adorable picket dogs.

On Monday, King’s UCU announced Ed Byrne, Principal of King’s, said yes to making an improved pensions offer, which would lower members’ contributions to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).

King’s UCU thanked King’s students, saying the decision was “partly as a result of overwhelming pressure from students.”

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