Politics UK

Bill Jones is Honorary Professor of Political Studies at Liverpool Hope University, UK.Philip Norton (Lord Norton of Louth) is Professor of Government at the University of Hull, UK.Isabelle Hertner is Reader in the Politics of Britain in Europe, King’s College, London, UK.

"A truly comprehensive and authoritative guide on British politics written by some of the most astute commentators and political scientists on the subject. Up to date, well written, great for students starting out and useful for old hands wanting to check their facts."Keith Dowding, Australian National University, Australia"Politics UK provides a solid foundation on the key concepts and themes of British politics for undergraduate students at an American university. My students often begin their course with a cursory knowledge of British politics and thus I need a textbook that immerses them without overwhelming them— and Politics UK delivers exactly that. The material within each chapter of this edited volume provides the most substantial overview of British politics available while remaining accessible to students new to the subject. Of particular note are the inclusion of numerous charts, tables, figures and photographs that let my students 'see' British politics. In terms of comprehensive coverage, appropriate level of writing, helpful supplemental material and timely coverage of contemporary events, there is no better textbook on the market."Neal Glen Jesse, Bowling Green State University, USA“Carefully revised and thoughtfully designed with engaging exercises in mind, Politics UK offers an accessible, clear and approachable introduction to contemporary British politics. Led by key scholars in the field, its chapters seamlessly integrate critical reflections on recent developments, essential academic concepts and new points of view, enabling students and those interested in staying up-to-date to navigate a tumultuous period in British politics.”Nora Siklodi, University of Portsmouth, UK“Politics UK has long been the definitive book for Politics A-level and first year undergraduate students. This latest edition is better than ever, in terms of its breadth of topics, the quality of contributions and the standing of contributors. Politics UK is essential reading for anyone seeking clarity on how our political system works.”Jon Tonge, University of Liverpool, UK

• Part 1: Context 1 Turbulence and realignment: Understanding contemporary politics in the United Kingdom 2 The UK, Europe, and the world 3 The social and economic context Point of View… The breaking of Britain Part 2: Defining the Political World 4 Ideology and the liberal tradition 5 Political ideas: The major parties 6 Political ideas: Identities and political fringes Point of View… The new working class Part 3: The Representative Process 7 Social mobility and elites in the United Kingdom 8 Elections and voting 9 The mass media and political communication 10 Gender and British politics 11 Pressure groups 12 Political Parties 13 Devolution Point of View… The case for the centre right Part 4: The Legislative Process 14 The changing constitution 15 The House of Commons at work 16 The House of Commons under pressure 17 The House of Lords Part 5: The Executive Process 18 The core executive: the Prime Minister and Cabinet 19 Ministers, departments and civil servants 20 Local government 21 The judiciary Point of View… Our ministerial talent pool is perilously shallow: Can it be deepened? Part 6: The Policy Process 22 The policymaking process 23 The politics of law and order 24 Social policy in the UK 25 Economic policy 26 British foreign and defence policy 27 Britain and the European Union 28 UK immigration policy in a hostile environment Point of View… How to become a great Prime Minister Epilogue