British Social Policy Since 1945 - Howard Glennerster

This is a new edition of one of the most widely used texts on the history of social policy. Covering the period from the end of the Second World War to the present day, Howard Glennerster focuses on the 'Welfare State' to explore the myths that have shaped popular conceptions of social policy, and which continue to dominate current debates. The new edition includes:
an entirely new chapter on developments since the 1997 General Election.
completely updated and amended text, including greater coverage of the Thatcher period.
a new conclusion drawing out what is seen as a distinctively British social policy direction.
more cross–country comparisons.
a fully updated reference section.
From the earliest days of the welfare state, to New Labour's reform commitments for the new century, Glennerster concludes that social policy can only ever be understood in the context of the political and economic concerns of the time.