Edinburgh University staff on first of six strikes

The University and Colleges Union (UCU) said the strike was happening because the university's principal had refused to rule out making compulsory redundancies

University of Edinburgh staff have gone on strike in a dispute over proposed £140m budget cuts.

The one-day walkout is to be followed by five further days of strikes at the start of the new academic year in September.

The University and Colleges Union (UCU) said the strike was happening because the university's principal, Sir Peter Mathieson, had refused to rule out making compulsory redundancies.

Earlier this month, Sir Peter told Holyrood's education committee the cuts, which include a £90m reduction in the wage bill, were "in the best interests of the university".

The union has plans for five further strikes later this year

About 350 staff have accepted voluntary redundancy but unions fear compulsory redundancies will follow.

The UCU members previously voted 84% in favour of industrial action.

Strike dates are also set for 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 September.

This coincides with the university's "welcome week" when students arrive for the new academic year.