Specifically, we would like to draw to your attention as matters we hope can be investigated by your Committee: ● The question of why UoE is proposing a cut of this magnitude (around 10%), significantly larger than those at comparable institutions, when its most recent published accounts (2023-24) show a surplus, student recruitment in 2024-25 has increased across all fee categories, based on a projected future deficit; ● Despite repeated requests for full disclosure (as required by law) of the financial situation that management claims requires cuts at this scale, Joint Unions have not been provided with access to key data and forecasting on which projections of a future deficit rely; ● Questions of financial management, budgeting and spending plans, such as whether planning and forecasting to date has been fit for purpose, when positive forecasts were being presented last academic year; whether the University’s capital spending has been excessive (as Joint Unions contend); and whether the University management is scaling back capital spending plans to address the projected deficit, and if so in what ways; ● Whether management has been fully transparent with the University Court in these matters, allowing it to exercise proper scrutiny of management’s decisions on finances, planning and budgeting; ● University management’s troubling track record of poor management and cost overruns in implementation of centralisation projects, notably the People and Money system, and the consequent lack of confidence of Joint Unions and staff in the Principal and the senior leadership teams’ capacity to effectively implement change programmes...