IGCSE Trade Unions

What is one of the main functions of trade unions?

• To eliminate all forms of employment

• To reduce the number of workers in a firm

• To increase taxes on workers

• To represent workers in negotiations with employers

In a competitive labour market, what happens when a trade union successfully bargains for a higher wage?

• Employment falls

• Productivity decreases

• Employment increases

• Wages decrease

What is a potential benefit of trade unions?

• They can increase unemployment for all workers

• They can provide protection for workers

• They can eliminate all strikes

• They can reduce wages for union members

What does economic theory suggest about wages?

• Higher wages can lead to increased productivity

• Lower wages always increase employment

• Wages have no impact on productivity

• Unions should not negotiate for higher wages

What factor can determine the success of trade unions?

• The number of workers in the union

• The color of the union's logo

• The age of the union members

• The location of the union office

What has contributed to the decline of trade unions since 1979?

• Deindustrialisation of the manufacturing sector

• Increase in full-time jobs

• Increased union membership

• Growth of the agricultural sector

What is one potential cost of trade unions?

• Increased wages for all workers

• Lower prices for goods

• Higher employment rates

• Time lost due to strike action

What is one reason for the decline in trade union power?

• Increased government support for unions

• Legislation that reduced union power

• Increase in union membership

• Growth of the manufacturing sector

What is a disadvantage to the worker of being part of a trade union?

• Workers may disagree with the outcome of a vote, but feel pressued to be involved in the action.

• Workers will lose some of their pay

• Workeres may feel stress and pressure from earning less money.

• All of the above

In the UK, employees at unionised workplaces earn around 13% more than non-unionised workplaces.

• True

• False