Union 'leverage' tactics probed in disputes inquiry
The dispute at Grangemouth oil refinery nearly led to the closure of the plant
The government has ordered an inquiry into industrial disputes, including "leverage" tactics by unions.
Downing Street said the wide-ranging review would be led by Bruce Carr QC.
The announcement follows last month's Grangemouth dispute, in which union teams reportedly targeted managers' homes.
The Unite union, which was involved in the dispute that nearly closed down the plant, dismissed the review as a "Tory election stunt".
The review will also investigate the impact of such disputes involving critical parts of the national infrastructure.
Unite said trade unions would not be prepared to "collaborate" with the inquiry.
'Deeply concerning'
Mr Carr's remit will include looking at whether current legislation is strong enough to stop what ministers called "inappropriate or intimidatory actions" in industrial disputes. This is believed to include the practices of employers.
Prime Minister David Cameron has described allegations that Unite members targeted the homes of Grangemouth refinery managers as "quite shocking".
Unite general secretary Len McCluskey has denied any intimidation and said the union acted within the law.
The inquiry will make recommendations about the roles of ministers, bosses and workers in industrial relations.
Cabinet Office Minister Francis Maude commented: "Allegations about trade union industrial intimidation tactics, including attempts to sabotage businesses supply chains and harass employers' families, are deeply concerning.
"That's why we need an independent review to get to the bottom of these activities as well as to look at the role played by government, employers and employees in industrial disputes.
"This forms part of our long-term plan to ensure Britain remains competitive and to secure an economic recovery for hard-working people."
Business Secretary Vince Cable said he had agreed to a "proportionate and rational review" of industrial disputes following "some very serious matters" at Grangemouth.
'Sop to backbenches'
A Unite spokesman said: "This review is a sorry attempt by the coalition to divert attention from the cost of living crisis. Vince Cable may not have noticed but the Grangemouth dispute has been settled.
"This review is nothing more than a Tory election stunt which no trade unionist will collaborate with."
Paul Kenny, general secretary of the GMB union, said the announcement appeared to be "another sop to the Tory backbenches".
TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "This has nothing to do with good industrial relations and is simply part of the Conservative Party's general election campaign."
Industrial relations lawyer Mr Carr is set to head a panel of three people, with employers and unions each represented. It will report to Mr Maude and Mr Cable.
The Grangemouth dispute began over the treatment of Unite union official Stephen Deans after allegations he was involved in attempting to rig the selection of a Labour candidate in Falkirk.
It escalated to the threat of strike action but despite this being dropped the operator Ineos shut down the plant and issued a "survival plan", which was rejected by union members.
Ineos then announced the closure of the petrochemical plant at the site with the loss of 800 jobs.
After crisis talks the union accepted the revised terms and conditions allowing the plant to stay open.
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