Liverpool Students Protest Over Cuts to Lecturers' Pensions

Students have occupied the Vice-Chancellor's private suite at the University of Liverpool in protest over cuts to lecturers' pensions.

Students took over the fifth floor of the University of Liverpool's Foundation Building as well as an area used by Vice-Chancellor Janet Beer in support of lecturers striking over cuts to their pensions.

A statement released by the group, said: "We act independently, but fully in support, of the University and College Union (UCU)."

"Janet Beer is the President of Universities UK (UUK), the collective body that represents Vice-Chancellors nationwide. She is also leading the attack on university workers' pensions which will see the average university worker lose £200,000."

"We believe this to be part of a wider campaign of marketisation within our education system."

"This process constitutes an assault upon the working conditions of university staff and the principle of accessible, high quality education for us as students."

The protest comes as university leaders and union officials were due to meet for talks.