Final answer:
The goal of unions is to protect the interests of their members, not to ensure a company's return on investment. Therefore, option a, for the company to receive a favorable return on investment, is not a goal of the union.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goal of a union is typically focused on advocating for the collective interests of its members. When we consider the options offered in the question, option a, for the company to receive a favorable return on investment, is not a goal of the union.
This is because unions are primarily concerned with the welfare, rights, and working conditions of their members — items b, c, and d, such as for the company to survive and remain competitive, to attract, retain, and motivate employees, and to obtain commitment that there will be no lockout, are aligned with ensuring secure employment. However, the primary function of the union is not to ensure the company's profitability, which is typically a management responsibility.
The union aims to ensure fair treatment and benefits for workers, maintain the competitiveness and stability of industries, and address social and environmental concerns.