Local Government In Scotland: Reform Or Decline? (case Studies In Contemporary Criticism)

In the first major academic text on the Scottish local government system, Arthur Midwinter presents a comprehensive and critical account of the major changes implemented by the Conservative Government in Westminster since 1987 and their impact in Scotland. He argues that the absence of substantial support for the Conservative approach is leading to instability and outlines the case for a structure and system which can secure democratic control and functional efficiency in a context where municipal provision will remain the dominant form of service delivery. Front Matter....Pages i-xvi The Political Context....Pages 1-10 The Road to Reform....Pages 11-29 Reforming Local Government Finance....Pages 30-53 Privatising Municipal Provision....Pages 54-85 Reshaping Local Authorities....Pages 86-109 Defending Local Government in Practice and Theory....Pages 110-141 Problems of Implementation....Pages 142-157 Back Matter....Pages 158-173 A presentation and critical account of the major changes implemented by the Conservative Government in Westminster since 1987 and their impact on Scotland. This text argues that the absence of substantial support for the Conservative approach is leading to instability. Arthur Midwinter. Includes Index. Bibliography: P. 158-168.