Social partnership means working together in a spirit of mutual respect, not only to solve problems, but also to improve performance. Without a high level of co-operation, trust and mutual understanding, it is accepted that a business or public service will fall short of its full potential. The best employers understand that workers are the greatest assets of an organisation. They understand that information, communication and consultation are essential if workers are to be well motivated. If employees have the opportunity to influence decisions affecting their working lives, they will be more committed and more productive.
Employers gain too, by becoming more competitive and providing a better service.
Elsewhere in Europe this approach is reinforced and encouraged by public policy - often through legal requirements for consultation with workers' representatives. Rights to information and consultation on issues affecting job prospects are an essential prerequisite to establishing mutual long-term commitment at work. In the UK the law says employers are only required to consult the representatives of trade unions. Bad employers have got round this simply by not recognising a union. However, the European Court has said that this is not acceptable and our government will have to change the law.