STAFF at 20 universities began a marking boycott today against deteriorating pay, pensions and working conditions, despite bosses threatening to hire scab workers and dock the pay of those taking part.  

The turnout represents fewer than half of the 41 University and College Union (UCU) branches nationwide which backed action short of a strike last month.

News of the boycott led management at some institutions to pressurise staff into abandoning plans to refuse to grade exams and dissertations, essential for students hoping to graduate this summer.