trade union

"Further education colleges are employers in their own right and as such, the department is not directly involved in negotiations with trade unions," the department said.

The industrial action, led by the trade union Verdi, began unexpectedly on Sunday at Hamburg Airport, before expanding to a nationwide strike.

It said it was "committed" to working with the sector, trade unions and other organisations on a "phased transition" for the oil and gas industry.

A University of Sheffield official said it was "firmly committed to supporting our colleagues and continuing to work constructively with our trade unions, whilst protecting our excellent research, teaching and student experience".

Compared with teachers, public employees, trade unions and other political heavyweights, cities and counties don’t have much clout in the capital.