ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on two empirical questions which are concerned with the management/union relationship during technological change. It involves an analysis of the relative influence of management and union sub-groups, and the relationships formed between them, in the introduction of microtechnological equipment. A number of specific trade union demands in relation to the introduction of microtechnology have been outlined in the policy statements and model arrangements of many trade union organisations, and the question is to what extent these are being achieved at 'grass roots' level. The chapter provides little evidence of the Trades Union Congress (TUC) objective of 'change by agreement' being achieved. There was no instance of technological change being negotiated, although some 'effects' of the change were subject to collective bargaining. The chapter explains three important factors of lack of union involvement are: managerial attitudes and strategies; trade union weakness; trade union organisation.
