This book evaluates the validity of a key proposition of public choice theory: that competition is associated with superior performance by governmental organisations. Three forms of competition in local government are identified: competition between local authorities, competition between councils and private contractors, and competition between parties for political power. The extent and consequences of competition are assessed in both the UK and USA. The analysis is used to draw conclusions on the effects of competition and the validity of public choice theory.

Autorentext

GEORGE BOYNE is Senior Research Fellow and Coordinator of the Public Services Research Unit at Cardiff Business School, University of Wales. He was previously Professor of Public Policy at the University of Glamorgan where he worked from 1980 to 1995, and a lecturer at the Robert Gordon University in his native Aberdeen from 1978 to 1980. He has published over 50 articles in academic journals mainly in the areas of local policy variation and local government structure, finance and performance. His other work includes Constraints, Choices and Public Policies.

Inhalt

Introduction Competition Between Local Authorities Competition Between Political Parties The Extent of Competition Between Public and Private Producers of Services The Effects of Competition Between Public and Private Producers of Services Conclusion References Index