Contemporary Industrial Relations : A Critical Analysis

This study reviews the assumption that fundamental changes occurring in British industrial relations practices have warranted a complete re-evaluation of workplace relationships. It discusses such topics as altering union membership, employment legislation and changes in the public sector.

Industrial relations have undergone significant and extensive change over the last fifteen years. The combined impact of government legislation, international competition, and organizational restructuring has affected union organization and membership; the scope and content of collective bargaining; and the organization, objectives and nature of work.The extent of these changes raises important questions about industrial relations and human resource management in contemporary Britain and demands fresh analysis.In Contemporary Industrial Relations leading authorities address these issues with a detailed and comprehensive analysis of current trends. Topics covered include:HRM and the New Industrial RelationsThe Role of the StateTrade Union LawIndustrial Relations and Economic PerformancePublic Sector UnionismUnion RecognitionThe New UnionismJapanizationThe contributors are: Ian Beardwell; David Guest and Kim Hoque; Ian Clark; Stephen Dunn and David Metcalf; Peter Nolan; Rachel Bailey; Tim Claydon; Ed Heery; and David Grant.The book will be vital reading for students, researchers and HR professionals wanting to get to grips with current changes in the workplace.