Modernizing Governance

'Janet Newman's 'Modernizing Governance' provides a comprehensive and thorough critique of contemporary public sector reforms. The book combines an impressive synthesis of theoretical perspectives with a deep understanding of the practice of public policy making and management. The contradictions within a shift to governance are clearly highlighted, and the notion of a third way is carefully deconstructed. This book is an important contribution to the literature, and will provide stimulating reading for academic researchers and students' - George Boyne, Professor of Public Sector Management, Cardiff Business School, Cardiff University



'The tale of Tony Blair and "government" is a complicated one which Janet Newman tells with insight and academic rigour....It deserves wide readership; it ought to pique the interest of all those concerned with the condition of British democracy' - David Walker, Analysis Editor and Leader Writer, The Guardian



The first comprehensive guide that explores the politics and policies of new Labour.

Has Labour's responses to the challenges and issues of the past 4 years, represented something radically different both in content and style from the Thatcher and Major years? Did it, in the language of this book, represent the emergence of a new form of governance in the UK?

This book offers:

Critical insights into Labour's impact on:

§ the relationship between government and citizens

§ public services and their users

§ the state and civil society

Interpretations of core themes in Labour's policy agenda:

§ the Third Way and social democracy

§ modernising government

§ public service reform

§ joined-up government and partnership

§ public participation and democratic renewal

§ remaking civil society



Drawing on cultural and institutional theory, the author brings a fresh approach