The Government of Scotland

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.