Introduction: The View from Abroad

Abstract

Without doubt the greatest concern of the potential inward investor to the UK is this country’s industrial relations record — or at least the stereotype as presented by the international media. Twenty years ago the one British name known to small boys and businessmen throughout the world was Bobby Charlton. Today — particularly among Asian businessmen — there are three names, Princess Diana, Margaret Thatcher and Arthur Scargill. While in the business community the first two are admired, the latter serves only to reinforce their prejudices. No amount of statistical analysis showing the considerably reduced level of strikes or the fact that in the international league table of industrial action Britain is by no means the worst can overcome this stereotype, which from time to time we inexorably seem to reinforce.