2.2.7

Trade Unions

Test yourself

Trade Unions

A trade union is an organisation formed by workers that represents and protects their interests in the workplace. Trade unions can give workers greater power and influence.

Illustrative background for UK government decreased union power in 1980sIllustrative background for UK government decreased union power in 1980s ?? "content

UK government decreased union power in 1980s

  • Government legislation and restriction since the late 1970s and early 1980s have meant that trade unions have less power than they used too.
Illustrative background for Benefits of trade unionsIllustrative background for Benefits of trade unions ?? "content

Benefits of trade unions

  • The introduction of trade unions has resulted in a number of key benefits:
    • Reduced discrimination in the workplace.
    • Higher pay.
    • Superior working conditions.
Illustrative background for Disadvantages of trade unionsIllustrative background for Disadvantages of trade unions ?? "content

Disadvantages of trade unions

  • By demanding wages that may be above the market equilibrium wage, trade unions could increase unemployment.
  • They may also hold back technological advances that could benefit society.
    • E.g many tube trains in London could be run autonomously but are not, partly because of trade union strength.

Jump to other topics

1Understanding Business Activity

1.1Business Activity

1.2Classification of Businesses

1.3Enterprise, Business Growth & Size

1.4Types of Business Organisation

1.5Business Objectives & Stakeholder Objectives

2People in Business

3Marketing

3.1Marketing & the Market

3.2Market Research

3.3Marketing Mix

3.4Legal Controls

4Operations Management

5Financial Information & Decisions

6External Influences on Business Activity

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium