ABSTRACT
Fair representation is intended to encourage the representation of the broad balance of members of the electorate. This chapter examines the manner in which different groups sought to take advantage of the broader principles of fair representation. It discusses how low-paid seats facilitate diversity amongst women but not amongst men. The chapter describes how some groups used the concept of fair representation to argue for more class-based and job-based diversity. It explores how self-organised groups argued for the representation of their groups on the National Executive Council and other bodies. The chapter reviews the arguments for and against reserved seats. The creation of UNISON in Local Government brought senior managers and supervisors under the same organising umbrella as craft and manual workers. Although very painful for the combatants, the fiercely contested concept of fair representation is arguably the first test of democracy within UNISON.
