Public Spending Decisions: Growth and Restraint in the 1970s

Public Spending Decisions, published in 1980, examines how the abrupt halt in public spending during the 1970s affected local authorities and government departments, and how decisions about the allocation of resources were made. It is a must-read for scholars of public policy, public administration, finance, and economics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 174 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1980, "Public Spending Decisions" sets out to explore crucial aspects related to public spending and its profound connection with economic and financial constraints. By the early 1970s, a pervasive belief in the enduring economic growth had permeated the minds of politicians, administrators, and the general public in Britain. Similarly, the notion of expanding public spending had become deeply ingrained within the machinery and processes of both local and central government. However, the sudden cessation of public spending growth during the 1970s posed a significant challenge to local authorities and government departments. How did these entities navigate the abrupt halt in public spending expansion? How were decisions regarding the allocation of increasingly scarce resources made? How did the treasury ensure that the spending limits set were not exceeded, and what were the implications of changes in the attitudes of decision-makers towards the growth of the public sector?

The contributors to this book are distinguished scholars in the field of local and central government, making it an invaluable resource for scholars of public policy, public administration, finance, and economics. The book delves into the intricacies of public spending decisions, shedding light on the complex interplay between economic, financial, and political factors that shape these crucial choices. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical context, policy frameworks, and decision-making processes that have influenced public spending patterns over time.

One of the key themes explored in "Public Spending Decisions" is the impact of economic and financial constraints on public spending. The authors examine how changes in the global economy, inflation, interest rates, and government policies have influenced public spending decisions and the resulting impact on public services, infrastructure, and social welfare programs. They analyze the strategies employed by governments to balance public spending with revenue generation, including tax policies, expenditure cuts, and revenue enhancements.

The book also sheds light on the role of decision-makers in shaping public spending policies. It explores the influence of political ideology, public opinion, and interest groups on decision-making processes, as well as the challenges faced by policymakers in navigating complex policy landscapes. The authors provide insights into the decision-making frameworks used by governments, including cost-benefit analysis, risk assessment, and strategic planning, and how these frameworks have influenced public spending decisions.

Furthermore, "Public Spending Decisions" examines the implications of changes in the attitudes of decision-makers towards the growth of the public sector. The authors explore how shifts in public opinion, political priorities, and economic conditions have influenced the expansion and contraction of public spending programs. They analyze the impact of these changes on the distribution of resources, the quality of public services, and the overall economic performance of countries.

The book also provides valuable case studies and examples from various countries and regions, showcasing the diverse approaches and strategies employed by governments to address public spending challenges. These case studies offer practical insights into the successes and failures of different public spending policies and provide a basis for policymakers to develop effective strategies for addressing their own country's public spending needs.

In conclusion, "Public Spending Decisions" is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the complex relationship between public spending and economic and financial constraints. It offers valuable insights into the historical, policy, and decision-making processes that shape public spending patterns and their impact on society. This book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of public spending and its implications for economic growth and social well-being.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032309880