Topic Five, Part 11 - Trade Unions Flashcards
What are trade unions?
Organisations that represent people at work
What do unions do?
- Negotiation
- Information and advice
- Member services
How are trade unions financed?
A subscription
What is a craft trade union?
To represent skilled workers
What is an industrial trade union?
To represent the members of one particular industry
What is a general trade union?
Recruit workers from all types of industries , with any level or range of skills
What is a white-collar trade union?
Represent office workers
Why is collective bargaining a reason to join a trade union?
- campaign for worker rights
- improve worker and manager
communication
How do members benefit from joining a trade union?
- Job satisfaction
- Improved benefits for unemployed
How does the issues a trade union cover be a reason to join?
- Range of issues covered
- change government policy
What are single union agreements?
Agreement betweenemployerand union that the union represents all workers at a workplace
What are the advantages to employees of single union agreements?
Employees together- greater power
No disagreement- one union
What are the advantages to employers of single union agreements?
One union - discussions clear
Better working relationship
Disputes solved quickly
What issue did trade unions pose to the government in the 70’s?
In 1974 Coal Miners Union strike brought down the Government
After TU legally had to give notice of strikes
How has unionisation of the workforce changed over the last 30 years?
Half of workforce unionised down to 27%
Why has there been a decrease in workforce unionised?
Decline in heavy industries and rise of part-time, self-employment and zero-hour contracts
What are trade unions like today?
Promote partnership between employers and employees to achieve common goals
What is collective bargaining?
When employers that recognise unions will negotiate with it over members conditions
What is a no strike deal?
A union gives up the right to strike
How do no strike deals benefit the union?
- A business wont see the union as hostile
- regular communication
- commitment for regular workforce training
How do no strike deals benefit the managers?
An employee will be expected at work unless ill
What is the Confederation of British Industry?
- The counterpart of the Trade Unions
- Provides information to the government on policy issues affecting businesses.
How can employees obtain shares?
Employees may be rewarded shares
1 share = 1 vote at Annual Meeting
What are quality circles?
Regular short meetings between employees during work
