Originally published in 1981, Trade Unions was written at a time when there was a widespread belief that Britain’s trade unions were undemocratic, obstructive and strike-prone. This book argues that throughout their history, British trade unions have played a reactive role, and that their objectives, organization and tactics have been shaped by the actions of others, whether employers, governments or the judiciary. The book examines the historical development of the trade union movement and its long running battle with lawyers and judges. It then analyses trade union structure, organization and government and looks at the pattern of union activity in the workplace. Trade Unions will be of interest to students of industrial relations, politics and management studies and for anyone interested in the role of unions within contemporary British society.

Review of the original edition of Trade Unions:

‘The student…will find in Alan Flanders a sure and lucid guide. The author writes with authority and puts fairly the issues involved in the many unresolved problems of our time.’ Higher Educational Journal.

Kevin Hawkins was Director General of the British Retail Consortium.