Search results for ""author michael keating""

A critical challenge to Scotland's new system of government is the making and implementation of public policy. This book offers a comprehensive account of the policy process in contemporary Scotland. There is a review of theories of policy-making, focusing on decentralised systems. The author then identifies the key actors and institutions, patterns of policy making, and the extent of convergence and divergence in comparison with England and other devolved territories. Case studies of policy making in health, higher education, housing, criminal justice, social inclusion and economic development allow the reader to see how policy making works in practice. There is an analysis of financial planning and decision making, and an examination of Scotland's role in UK and European policy networks. Comparisons are made with other devolved governments in Europe and beyond. The book is based on extensive research, including interviews with leaders of interest groups, politicians and officials across the Scottish Government and in the Scottish Parliament, an analysis of spending patterns, an examination of the legislative output, and case studies of policy making. Key Features *Provides the only comprehensive account of policy-making under devolution in Scotland *Places Scotland within a broader theoretical and comparative framework and analyses institutions and processes of policy-making *Contains case studies of specific policy fields and a thorough treatment of financial questions *Emphasis is placed on Scotland's insertion into UK, European and international networks The second edition includes new and updated information in the following areas: * Election results * Voting by class, etc. * Manifestoes * Scottish Executive (now Government) departments * Background of MSPs * Committees * Expenditure data There is also updating to take account of the change in government in 2007, including substantially revised material on intergovernmental relations and on Europe. The case studies on policy making have also been updated, with extensive changes in the section on economic development. In addition there is a new discussion of proposals for further devolution, following the National Conversation and the Calman Commission.

Read more less

The ambition of the Scottish Government is to create a wealthier and fairer nation. Following the devolution acts of 1998, 2012 and 2016, it has extensive powers and resources to fulfill its ambition. This interdisciplinary collection of essays asks how it can be achieved, given the range of powers available, economic constraints, institutions and public support. Looking at economic policy, taxation and welfare, it provides a realistic analysis of the opportunities and constraints facing a small, devolved nation. After years of debate on what powers Scotland should have, this book examines how they might be used to shape the country’s future.

Read more less

The ambition of the Scottish Government is to create a wealthier and fairer nation. Following the devolution acts of 1998, 2012 and 2016, it has extensive powers and resources to fulfill its ambition. This interdisciplinary collection of essays asks how it can be achieved, given the range of powers available, economic constraints, institutions and public support. Looking at economic policy, taxation and welfare, it provides a realistic analysis of the opportunities and constraints facing a small, devolved nation. After years of debate on what powers Scotland should have, this book examines how they might be used to shape the country’s future.

Read more less

This major text has been thoroughly revised and updated for the second edition. It sheds new light on the changing roles of the state in Europe and the European Union.After introducing conceptions of the state, bureaucracy, interest groups, patronage and political currents within Europe, Michael Keating focuses on the five major European democracies - the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany and Spain. In each case, state and government as well as parties and elections, policymaking and territorial policies are investigated. Key new issues affecting the whole of Europe are discussed including: the effects of and prospects for European Integration and the single currency the end of the Cold War and its effect both on the boundaries of Europe and the internal politics of the countries of western Europe the debate centred on the retreat or strengthening of the state; the market versus politics in the age of globalization the consequences of increasing multiculturalism on the political order in nation states Clear, concise and thought-provoking, The Politics of Modern Europe provides an excellent resource for students of European studies and the politics of Europe.

Read more less

Is social democracy in a terminal condition in Europe? Social democracy is in office almost nowhere in Europe and seems to be out of ideas in the face of the economic crisis that might have given it a historic opportunity. While accepting the truth of this, this volume takes a stand again those who claim that social democracy is dead. By arguing that social democracy is not a single set of ideas or practices but a way of reconciling market capitalism with social inclusion and equality, the contributors show that it has actually been remarkably successful during the 20th century. Its key principles are still relevant but must be adapted to new conditions. In this book, Keating and McCrone examine the fortunes of social democracy in western and east central Europe and the policy challenges in economic policy, labour markets, social welfare, public services, integration and decentralisation.

Read more less

For the last thirty years Somalia has experienced violence and upheaval. Today, the international effort to help Somalis build a federal state and achieve stability is challenged by deep-rooted grievances, local conflicts and a powerful insurgency led by Al-Shabaab. Consisting of forty-four chapters by conflict resolution specialists and the world’s leading experts on Somalia, this volume constitutes a unique compendium of insights into the insurgency and its impact. War and Peace in Somalia explores the legacies of past violence, especially impunity, illegitimacy and exclusion, and the need for national reconciliation. Drawing on decades of experience and months of field research, the contributors throw light on diverse forms of local conflict, its interrelated causes, and what can be done about it. They share original research on the role of women, men and youth in the conflict, and present new insight into Al-Shabaab--particularly the group's multi-dimensional strategy, the motivations of its fighters, their foreign links, and the prospects for engagement. This ground-breaking volume illuminates the war in Somalia, and sets out what can and should be done to bring it to an end. For policymakers and researchers covering Somalia, East Africa, extremism or conflict resolution, this is a must-read.

Read more less

Four new brand-new full-cast Blake's 7 adventures set during the TV series' third season, following directly on from events in Restoration Part One. The battle-damaged Liberator is a doomed ship, and Avon must resort to desperate measures to effect repairs. Meanwhile, the new President has ambitious plans to restore the Federation and extend his ruthless control of thousands of worlds. 5.5 The New Age by Mark Wright. The dying Liberator arrives in orbit of Eldoran, a world Avon believes could offer respite from their current trials. All that stands in the way is a primitive society, a charismatic leader and the fracture lines threatening to destroy the crew from within. 5.6 Happy Ever After by Steve Lyons. The people of Zareen have seen the future. Their queen will be married to a handsome stranger, and they will enjoy a blissful life together. So, how can Tarrant possibly refuse...? 5.7 Siren by Sophia McDougall. In the wreckage of a ruined world, Dayna and Cally encounter Mida and Veskar, who must escape the attention of those who once ruled them. Although defeated, the System still seeks to take control. 5.8 Hyperion by Trevor Baxendale. Avon must convince the mysterious Selene to reveal the secret of Yyperion and save the Liberator – but the Federation is closing in on the crew, and what Selene knows could change everything...CAST: Paul Darrow (Kerr Avon), Michael Keating (Vila Restal), Jan Chappell (Cally), Steven Pacey (Del Tarrant), Yasmin Bannerman (Dayna Mellanby), Alistair Lock (Zen/Orac), Catherine Bailey (Mida), Heather Bleasdale (Illyne), Sophie Bleasdale (Alta Nine), Lisa Bond (Queen Janylle), Phillipe Bosher (Veskar), Cliff Chapman (Tyrric), Evie Dawnay (Selene Shan),Richard Keith (Remek), Dawn Murphy (Karna), Vincenzo Nicoli (Sherna), Carolyn Pickles (Vulkris), Richard Reed (Krent), Ruth Sillers (Alta Ten).

Read more less

Four new brand-new full-cast Blake's 7 adventures set during the TV series' third season. 9. Ministry of Truth by Una McCormack. In a special facility, the Federation propagandists are hard at work. When first Zeera Vos, and then the Liberator crew arrive, their work is disrupted, and a traitor, it seems, has been busy in their midst. 10. Refuge by Trevor Baxendale. The Federation is in turmoil. The war is raging out of control. It’s time for Avon and his crew to pick a side – but when the Liberator finds a ship full of refugees, they realise that nothing can ever be that simple...11. Kith and Kin by Christopher Cooper. The planet Corrolos is a safe haven for ex-oligarchs and retired royalty. So why is Tarrant insistent on going there, and what was the last wish of his dead brother, Deeta? 12. Death of Empire by Steve Lyons. Servalan is Supreme Empress of the Galaxy – but the man whose throne she usurped wants it back. The final battle of the Civil War begins – and it’s time for the Liberator crew to take a stand. Blake's 7 proves to be one of Big Finish's most popular ranges, with fans of the original late 1970s BBC1 series enjoying many of the TV actors returning to their roles. This set comprises the third run of four tales in a fourth series of full-cast Blake's 7adventures from Big Finish, accompanying three complete series of full-cast adventures, and the award-winning range of Blake's 7- Liberator Chronicles volumes. The stories are set within the third BBC TV series, as Paul Darrow's Avon begins to cement his place as the leader of the anti-heroes on their stolen alien ship. Yasmin Bannerman (Doctor Who, Merseybeat) has been cast as Dayna Mellanby, a character originally played by Josette Simon. CAST: Paul Darrow (Kerr Avon), Michael Keating (Vila Restal), Jan Chappell (Cally), Steven Pacey (Del Tarrant), Jacqueline Pearce (Servalan), Yasmin Bannerman (Dayna Mellanby), Alistair Lock (Zen/Orac), Rebecca Crankshaw (Zeera Vos), Dan March (Verner), Susie Riddell (Bowkan), Bruce Alexander (Galon), Malcolm James (Dev), Charlotte Strevens (Reeva), Peter Aubrey (Kimar), Hugh Fraser (The Former President), John Green (Mordekain).

Read more less

Four new brand-new full-cast Blake's 7 adventures set during the TV series' third season. 4.5 Funeral on Kalion by Trevor Baxendale. Thern Sorron, the ruler of Kalion, is dead. Federation presidents, both old and new, attend the funeral ostensibly to pay their respects, but whoever possesses the Seal of Kalion, controls the vast Kalion shipyards. 4. 6 Shock Troops by Cavan Scott. As the war between the presidents escalates, new recruits are urgently required. Dayna gains first-hand experience of what life can be like as a Federation trooper as she confronts insurgent forces on a frontier world. 4. 7 Erebus by Paul Darrow. The Liberator is lured to the planet Erebus. There, the former Federation president is colluding with an old acquaintance of Avon’s who is eager for a reunion. 4.8 The Scapegoat by Steve Lyons. On the Federation world of Astra Valadina, the former President is hatching a plan to discredit his successor and turn the tide of the war in his favour. The unwitting pawns in his scheme are the crew of the Liberator. Blake's 7 proves to be one of Big Finish's most popular ranges, with fans of the original late 1970s BBC1 series enjoying many of the TV actors returning to their roles. This set comprises the second rule of four tales in a fourth series of full-cast Blake's 7 adventures from Big Finish, accompanying three complete series of full-cast adventures, and the award-winning range of Blake's 7–Liberator Chronicles volumes. The stories are set within the third BBC TV series, as Paul Darrow's Avon begins to cement his place as the leader of the anti-heroes on their stolen alien ship. Yasmin Bannerman (Doctor Who, Merseybeat) has been cast as Dayna Mellanby, a character originally played by Josette Simon. CAST: Paul Darrow (Kerr Avon), Michael Keating (Vila Restal), Jan Chappell (Cally), Steven Pacey (Del Tarrant), Jacqueline Pearce (Servalan), Yasmin Bannerman (Dayna Mellanby), Alistair Lock (Zen/Orac), Hugh Fraser (The President), Trevor Littledale (Maldor),Imogen Church (Niner), Tam Williams (Jay), Tania Rodrigues (Captain), Issy Van Randwyck (Eve / Nada), Anthony Townsend (Commander / Robot), John Green (Mordekain), Toby Longworth (Lockwood), Kerry Skinner (Zheanne).

Read more less

This excellent collection updates and adds to a growing literature on small states. The cases and conditions which the authors examine are well chosen and provide fresh thinking on enduring questions.'- Peter J. Katzenstein, Walter S. Carpenter, Jr. Professor of International Studies, Cornell University, USSmall States in the Modern World comprehensively assesses the different modes of adaptation by small states in response to the security and economic vulnerabilities posed by global change. It uses a diverse collection of case studies to explore the complexities of change and to place them in their temporal and geographical context. Issues covered include:- international security and economic vulnerability- small states in international organizations, including the European Union- Quebec and Scotland as autonomous nations but not independent states- different modes of adaptation including market liberalism, social concertation and the management of natural resources.These contributions from renowned authors show that small states need external shelter and internal buffers in order to cope with vulnerability. Although many of the responses are path-dependent, driven by historical legacies, there is scope to choose.This compelling discussion of adaptations of small states will prove invaluable to scholars in political science, international relations and regional studies, as well as policy-makers and in particular those working in small states and would-be states.Contributors: A.J.K. Bailes, H. Baldersheim, J. Batóra, N. Brandal, Ø. Bratberg, L. Cianetti, M. Harvey, M. Keating, J. McNeill, D. Panke, S. Paquin, A. Sikk, A. Steen, B. Thorhallsson

Read more less

Regions are increasingly recognised as a key aspect of economic change in Europe, not merely as geographic spaces but also as social systems. Their history, culture, institutions and patterns of leadership mould the way in which they adapt to European and global competitive challenges. This book reviews the debate surrounding the construction of regions and presents eight case studies to illustrate how they are shaped and reshaped in a variety of different ways. The authors find that while some regions exhibit common patterns, there are significant variations, indicating that there is no definitive model of regional development.This book offers a systematic comparison of eight distinct regions and stateless nations, each with its own historical identity, but which is constantly being rebuilt in changing economic and political conditions. Avoiding economic or cultural determinism, the authors show how region-builders can shape their own responses to global challenges to produce models of development reflecting differing understandings and social compromises.Culture, Institutions and Economic Development will be warmly welcomed by academics within the fields of regional studies, European studies and political science.

Read more less

Four brand-new full-cast Blake's 7 adventures set during the TV series' third season, following directly on from events in Restoration Part Two. 5.9 PARASITE by TREVOR BAXENDALE. Avon is missing, and Zen has taken control of the Liberator–but can the rest of the crew trust Selene's offer to help, and what is the secret of the doomed planet Tronis? 5.10 FAILSAFE by STEVE LYONS. General Enton Mordekain is trapped underground, badly injured, with no memory of how he came to be here – and he’s manacled to his worst enemy, Del Tarrant. He has to work out who he can trust – and fast. 5.11 REUNION by DAVID BRYHER. A secret lies buried on the prison planet Cygnus Alpha. The Quonar parasite wants it - and so does Zeera Vos. With the Liberator crew caught in the crossfire, Vila and Zeera must face the past if they have any hope of getting out alive...5.12 IMPERIUM by TREVOR BAXENDALE Fighting to save Zen –and prevent the President regaining total control –the crew of the Liberator must rescue Alta-One, the last survivor of the System, and discover the ultimate fate of Avon.This release also includes an additional BEHIND-THE-SCENES CD featuring exclusive interviews with the cast and crew who discuss the making of Restoration – Part Three.Cast: Paul Darrow (Kerr Avon), Michael Keating (Vila Restal), Jan Chappell (Cally), Steven Pacey (Del Tarrant), Yasmin Bannerman (Dayna Mellanby), Alistair Lock (Zen/Orac), Rebecca Crankshaw (Zeera), Evie Dawnay (Selene Shan), Hugh Fraser (The President), John Green (General Mordekain), Trevor Littledale (Valren), Becky Wright (Zoraya).

Read more less

Regions are increasingly recognised as a key aspect of economic change in Europe, not merely as geographic spaces but also as social systems. Their history, culture, institutions and patterns of leadership mould the way in which they adapt to European and global competitive challenges. This book reviews the debate surrounding the construction of regions and presents eight case studies to illustrate how they are shaped and reshaped in a variety of different ways. The authors find that while some regions exhibit common patterns, there are significant variations, indicating that there is no definitive model of regional development.This book offers a systematic comparison of eight distinct regions and stateless nations, each with its own historical identity, but which is constantly being rebuilt in changing economic and political conditions. Avoiding economic or cultural determinism, the authors show how region-builders can shape their own responses to global challenges to produce models of development reflecting differing understandings and social compromises.Culture, Institutions and Economic Development will be warmly welcomed by academics within the fields of regional studies, European studies and political science.

Read more less

Hoosiers have always loved basketball! Long before Larry Bird carried Indiana State University to the 1979 NCAA National Championship or Bobby Knight walked the sidelines at Indiana University, basketball fostered community identity across the Hoosier state. From Indiana's tiniest towns to its biggest cities, high school basketball is a source of pride, unifying communities with different races, religions, and social and economic status.First drawn simply to documenting the architecture of Indiana's high school buildings and basketball courts, Chris Smith and Michael Keating quickly discovered that the real story was about more than just brick and mortar, maple and shellac. Told repeatedly by locals how important these places were to their communities, they began to embrace the "game on Saturday, church on Sunday" mantra that is found in many towns through Indiana, watching countless hours of basketball and becoming a part of the Hoosier tradition themselves. With over 150 color photographs and unforgettable stories from high school basketball and beyond, Chasing Indiana's Game: The Hoosier Hardwood Project is a tribute to the Hoosier state and all who love basketball.

Read more less