Overview

How much freedom of action does an ambitious reforming party have as it moves from opposition to government? Drawing on original research and first-hand interviews, Andrew Connell analyses the development of welfare reform policy following New Labour's ascent to power in 1997 to show how ideas, actors, and structures can constrain policy options. He looks at the contrasting ideas of Frank Field, Minister for Welfare Reform in 1997-8, and of Gordon Brown, and shows how Brown's approach eventually came to prevail. The book also includes a unique exposition of Field's political and social philosophy, showing how his consistent Christian socialist beliefs influenced his work as Minister for Welfare Reform. 'Welfare Policy under New Labour' will be essential reading for scholars of contemporary politics and social policy and for those interested in New Labour and welfare reform._x000D_ _x000D_ The appointment of Frank Field as Minister for Welfare Reform in May 1997 was seen at the time as a bold move by the Prime Minister Tony Blair, and raised expectations of radical reform to Britain s welfare state. In the event, however, Field was able to achieve few of his objectives, and he resigned in August 1998, and the welfare reforms subsequently enacted by New Labour were much closer to the approach advocated by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown. In this book, Connell provides a wealth of new material and valuable insights into what with hindsight has proved to be the defining period for New Labour, welfare and the role of special advisors in Whitehall. This is by far the fullest and most authoritative account of New Labour and welfare, and is also written in a clear and engaging style. _x000D_ - Professor Alan Deacon, Emeritus Professor of Social Policy, Faculty of Education, Social Science and Law, University of Leeds

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9781283057479

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