Ian Butler is Professor of Social Work at the University of Bath and a qualified social worker with considerable practice and managerial experience. His main research interest lies in the development of public policy and how it affects children, young people and their families.Mark Drakeford is Professor of Social Policy and Applied Social Sciences at the University of Wales, Cardiff. His research interests cover poverty and social policy, with particular emphasis on young people and criminal justice issues.

"This is an exceptional book. Its skilful blending of contemporaneous reporting, politics and social history, and strong, sustained critique, make it one of the outstanding texts of recent times. Essential reading for social workers, managers, educators, and especially students of journalism as well as social work." Angie Ash, Professional Social Work

• The second week of January, 1973; November and December, 1972; The state of social work; The public enquiry; Social work on trial; Afterwards; The trial continues.