Choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined world(S). The government is not opening up to the unions in the negotiations; it must have something ...

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined world(S).

The government is not opening up to the unions in the negotiations; it must have something up its sleeve?

Answer Details

The underlined phrase "have something up its sleeve" means that the government is keeping a secret plan or strategy to deal with the unions. Option A, "be nursing a hidden agenda" has a similar meaning, as it implies that the government is keeping a secret agenda or plan. Therefore, option A is the option nearest in meaning to the underlined phrase.