Trade union recognition in Britain, 1995–2002: turning a corner?

This paper examines developments in union recognition in Britain between 1995–2002 and assesses the influence of the statutory provisions for gaining recognition contained in the Employment Relations Act 1999 . The paper details the significant increase in new agreements, concluding that the new law is one important factor explaining this growth. Analysis is made of the nature and circumstances of the new agreements. Finally, the paper considers whether these developments indicate the turning of a corner for trends in recognition coverage.