Analyse the advantages to SU of its workers being in a trade union.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [K] TU - Association of workers concerned with improving pay and conditions or similar
2. [K] Including employees in framework of business leading to greater commitment
3. [K] One body to communicate with workers
4. [K] Only one body to negotiate pay and conditions saves time and guarantees employee agreement
5. [K] Trade union can explain terms and conditions and help enforce them
6. [K] Trade union can help enforce employment laws
7. [K] Employee representation can enhance job security, and cause lower rate of leaving
8. [K] Less chance of random industrial action
9. [K] Definite channel of communication with employees minimising cost of disputes
10. [K] Problems identified early saving costs of correction
11. [K] Involvement of TU may lead to fairer treatment of employees and improved reputation
12. [APP] 60% membership
13. [APP] TU not currently recognised
14. [APP] Flexible contract home working
15. [APP] New factory opening in 6 months
16. [APP] Production department manager resisting recognition
17. [APP] Higher labour turnover and recruiting difficulties
18. [APP] Knowledge of working conditions elsewhere may help raise standards for SU
19. [AN] Points above lead to greater commitment and quality
20. [AN] Guarantees employee agreement with negotiated terms and conditions -lower costs
21. [AN] Job security enhanced hence better motivation, increasing productivity
22. [AN] Lower absenteeism labour turnover and easier recruitment – lower costs
23. [AN] Lower resistance to change