Members of the PCS trade union in the Department for Education (DfE) have voted to go on strike over plans to restructure the department and reduce administration spending by 42 per cent over the spending review period.
“These cuts are purely political and would not only mean misery for 1,000 of Mr Gove’s own staff but also put at risk some vital public services, such as ensuring children are safe at school,” said Mark Serwotka, the PCS general secretary.
A DfE spokesperson responded: “We are disappointed that the PCS has voted in favour of strike action. We have held extensive discussions with the PCS and we are consulting with staff on the proposed changes. We have made it clear that we want to avoid compulsory redundancies wherever possible.
“It is entirely wrong of the PCS to suggest that the DfE review will in any way have an impact on the safety of children,” she added.