Lecturers from the University of Hertfordshire are boycotting marking and assessment as part of an ongoing pay and working conditions dispute. 

Thousands of members of the University and College Union (UCU), including members of the Hatfield university, joined the boycott that started yesterday (Thursday, April 20). 

UCU said: "This is despite many of you receiving outrageous threats of punitive deductions from employers for daring to make a stand. Many of you have been told you are facing 50 per cent deductions, with some employers' even going to 100 per cent.  

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"These actions are immoral, aimed at intimidating you, and about attempting to break your resolve as quickly as possible." 

Students who will be graduating in the coming months have been left worried about the boycott as they are set to finish their time at university soon. 

A spokesperson from the University of Hertfordshire said: "We received confirmation from the University and College Union (UCU) that they will be undertaking a marking and assessment boycott. 

"We have communicated this information to students and assured them that the University will remain open throughout this latest period of industrial action, with teaching and learning going ahead wherever possible.  

                                                                                                         

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"We are putting in place a series of measures to minimise the impact on students, as well as our staff and the wider community. 

"While there may be some delays, we have reassured students that they will all receive their marks in time to finish their academic year, or to graduate as planned."