LONDON, May 31, 2007, (WAFA), British University and College Union (UCU) voted Wednesday to consider a boycott of Israeli academic institutions.

During Wednesday conference, delegates to the first annual meeting of the new UCU, which represents 120,000 members, cast 158 votes in favor and 99 against, a motion condemning Israel for its "denial of educational rights" for the Palestinian people.

Palestinian trade unions for a comprehensive and consistent international boycott of all Israeli academic institutions, which provoked the issue welcomed the vote.

UCU Secretary General, Sally Hunt, said in a statement that the motion on boycott means all branches now have a responsibility to consult all of their members on the issue.

"I believe that every member should have the opportunity to have their say. The earlier motion means that any future calls for a boycott must pass key tests before a boycott can be implemented." She added.

S.A.S. (13:35P) (10:35GMT)