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ARTICLE · 25 FEBRUARY 2026

Industrial Action

Lewis Silkin
Lewis Silkin
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Lewis Silkin

Lewis Silkin

Joint managing partners: Jo Farmer, Richard Miskella International offices: Dublin, Hong Kong...

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Economically turbulent times resulting from coronavirus have seen an increase in trade unions' membership and an increase in them ‘flexing their muscles' by threatening...

United KingdomEmployment and HR
Colin Leckey
Colin Leckey
David Hopper
David Hopper
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Economically turbulent times resulting from coronavirus have seen an increase in trade unions' membership and an increase in them 'flexing their muscles' by threatening industrial action over adverse changes in the workplace for their members.

Introduction

Industrial action is a way for unions to put pressure on an employer about changes in the workplace. The new Employment Rights Act makes it easier for unions to call strikes and may also lead to increased trade union membership in Great Britain. This Inbrief outlines the law in this area and gives employers practical tips for responding to and avoiding conflicts.

The content includes:

  • What is industrial action?
  • Is industrial action lawful or unlawful?

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