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The Scottish Industrial Relations System: A Hybrid System Shaped by State Policy in Nation Building to Challenge the UK Liberal Market Economy Approach

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  • Melanie Simms

Abstract

This paper examines Scotland's industrial relations system, highlighting divergence from Westminster's neoliberal model. It emphasizes the role of the State in shaping Fair Work and skills policies that prioritise trade union voice, legitimacy, and partnership working. Nonetheless, limited enforcement, weak employer coordination, and political tensions hinder policy implementation.

Suggested Citation

  • Melanie Simms, 2026. "The Scottish Industrial Relations System: A Hybrid System Shaped by State Policy in Nation Building to Challenge the UK Liberal Market Economy Approach," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 57(2), pages 181-189, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:indrel:v:57:y:2026:i:2:p:181-189
    DOI: 10.1111/irj.70025
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Simon DEAKIN & Priya LELE & Mathias SIEMS, 2007. "The evolution of labour law: Calibrating and comparing regulatory regimes," International Labour Review, International Labour Organization, vol. 146(3-4), pages 133-162, September.
    2. Christian Dufour & Adelheid Hege, 2010. "The legitimacy of collective actors and trade union renewal," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 16(3), pages 351-367, August.
    3. Jonathan Payne, 2009. "Divergent skills policy trajectories in England and Scotland after Leitch," Policy Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 30(5), pages 473-494.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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