Article Abstract:
The future prospects for Britain's trade unions are discussed. In the UK, as in most other industrialized countries of the world, trade unionism is in a state of decline. In Great Britain, the unions are facing a hostile political environment. Industries in which the unions have traditionally had a strong presence are shifting to developing countries where labor costs less. Industries are automating jobs once held by workers, and making greater use of part-time workers. Women and young people who are coming into the work force for the first time have shown little interest in joining unions. It is also possible that unions have outlived their function, and that workers no longer see a need for unions. If unions survive at all in the long-term in the UK, it is likely to be in a different economic and political role than they have had in the past.
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Article Abstract:
The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) took effect in Great Britain October 1, 1989. It overrides outdated laws and requires employers to exhibit good occupational hygiene with regard to hazardous substances in the workplace. A business that fails to comply with the new legislation will face criminal prosecution. Along with other requirements of the legislation, employers are now required to: assess the risk to employees' health from hazardous substances used in the workplace; implement control measures that prevent hazardous substance exposure; and ensure that equipment is well maintained and control measures are followed. Personnel managers will be the responsibility for enforcing COSHH regulations.
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Article Abstract:
A review of the history surrounding teachers' labor negotiations in the UK is presented. In 1986 the government revealed that it was considering repealing the 1965 Remuneration of Teachers Act. The Act had established that negotiating parties could have access to arbitration. It also increased the bargaining power of teachers. However, teacher union rivalry in the UK and the increased use of disruptive sanctions are two reasons why repeal of the Remuneration of Teachers Act has come under discussion.
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