AN Oxfordshire MP is backing a strike by teachers at Abingdon and Witney College over pay next week.

Oxford West and Abingdon's Layla Moran says it is 'outrageous' that staff feel they have 'no option' but to take industrial action.

Staff from the college, which has various campuses, will go on strike on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The University and College Union (UCU), claims college staff pay has decline by '25 per cent' in real terms in 10 years, leaving a pay gap to school teachers - who had a pay rise last year - of £7,000.

Ms Moran, who is also the Lib Dems’ education spokesperson, said: "It is outrageous that hardworking staff have been left feeling they have no option but to strike. As a former teacher, I know this is not a decision which will have been taken lightly."

Ms Moran lamented further education's 'chronic under-funding' and 'neglect', and emphasised how staff pay trailed 'way behind' schools.

UCU regional official Nick Varney added: "Staff have had enough of seeing their workloads increase while pay is eroded. The college needs to prioritise its staff and come back to us with a meaningful offer. If it refuses then further strikes are on the cards."

There will be midday rallies on Tuesday at Witney, and at Abingdon on Wednesday, after 71 per cent of voting UCU members backed striking.

In a statement, the college said: “A small number of college staff are planning to strike next week in support of a 5 per cent pay claim.

"The college will be open as usual all day.”