Working for the Union

This book examines the relationship between union officials and shop stewards in Britain from 1986 to 1991, challenging claims of a new era in industrial relations.

The book Working for the Union delves into the intricate dynamics between full-time union officials and shop stewards throughout British industry during the years 1986 to 1991. This period was marked by significant economic challenges, including recession and a notable decline in union influence. Many observers suggested that the country was entering a 'new era of industrial relations,' but Working for the Union offers a critical examination of this assertion, providing a wealth of evidence that questions its accuracy.

This comprehensive study stands out as the first major exploration of union officials in two decades. It meticulously analyzes the landscape of workplace collective bargaining and union organization in the aftermath of the early 1980s recession. With the backdrop of industrial restructuring, anti-union legislation, and evolving union policies, the book presents a nuanced view of the changing nature of labor relations in Britain. By utilizing a diverse range of data sources—surveys, interviews, questionnaires, and observational studies—it effectively addresses the limitations often found in both large-scale surveys and individual case studies.

Working for the Union not only highlights the relationships within the union structure but also sheds light on the broader implications for industrial relations in a time of change. The findings challenge the prevailing narratives and encourage readers to reconsider the state of unions and their role in the evolving landscape of British labor relations.