Description
Book SynopsisMinisters and their ministries are the means by which we hold government accountable for providing vital public services such as adequate health, education, and social security benefits. In this provocative book the author systematically examines the persisting and changing features of Whitehall ministries since 1945. Three case studies - the Scottish Office, the Welsh Office, and the Northern Ireland Office - provide detailed illustrations of the complexity of the issues involved.Professor Rose''s analysis raises fresh questions about the priorities of politicians as individuals, and about public priorities involving tens of billions of pounds and millions of public servants. His concluding chapter argues that Mrs Thatcher''s attempt to introduce techniques of business management into government is based upon a fundamental misunderstanding of the priorities of ministers and ministries.
Trade Review'a book which stimualtes thinking about analytic frameworks for Whitehall structures.'Journal of Public Policy
'... this book will inform and entertain students and practitioners alike ... a clear and extensive account of how departments of central government operate.' Times Higher Education Supplement
'This interesting book contains much useful information.' Parliamentary Affairs
'For those who do not know Rose's approach to the growth and functions of government this book provides another opportunity to have it fairly succinctly presented. Those who are already familiar with it can still profit from the rich detail and possibly unfamiliar context of the case studies.' British Politics Group Newsletter
'The virtue of the book is that it brings together much interesting and useful information and insights on the working of the ministry a an institution. The discussion is well-supported by a good supply of data and clearly presented lists and tables.' Public Administration 8/88
