Research Developments in Employment Relations and Diversity: A British Perspective

Abstract

The paper argues that the success or otherwise of diversity policies is (partly) dependent on their relation with the prevailing employment system. Changes in the British employment system under the New Labour government are reviewed, with particular reference to their implications for diversity, especially gender equality, issues. Some of the main areas of current policydebate are considered, including the `business case' approach. The problems for policy remain, however, particularly in the gendered nature of the components of the employment system, including industrial relations and HRM institutions and structures. Implications for future research are explored.