York College is closed today (Monday) as tutors went on strike.
Labour’s MP for York Central joined the picket line on Tadcaster Road as members of the University and College Union walked out.
They are striking all day today and Friday.
As a result of their action, college principal Lee Probert decided to close today and reopen tomorrow.
The strike is a dispute over pay. Staff have been given a 2.5% pay increase despite the high levels of inflation this year. School teachers were awarded 6.5%.
A union spokesperson told YorkMix: “We have no alternative but to take strike action. The cost of living crisis means 2.5% is not acceptable.”
Mr Probert said the strike action was “a matter of great regret”. He said he was “really optimistic” that employees would be granted a 6.5% pay rise, effective from 1 January, 2024.