Unions try to influence the political parties and win support for their policies.
They lobby MPs and peers of all parties, keep them up to date with research and campaigns and encourage their support during parliamentary debates and the scrutiny of bills. Most unions find that their closest relationship is with the Labour Party because of a shared history and common objectives. Many have good relationships with the Liberal Democrats. Relations with Conservatives tend to be more difficult. Many Conservatives are hostile to trade unions but this is not always the case and unions still try to work with Conservatives on an issue by issue basis.