(I) People who work in one trade, industry or service are often organised into associations called trade unions, (II) The chief aims of a trade union are to safeguard the jobs of its members and to represent their interests, (III) The modern trade union movement began in Britain in the 19th century, when working people were often ruthlessly exploited by their employers. (IV) During the Industrial Revolution, the government had accepted the doctrine that it should keep hands off business. (V) As individuals they were helpless, but as an organised group, they could act to improve their conditions.