This book discusses the main aspects of the evolution and actions of the British state from the late eighteenth century to the outbreak of the second world war. It has three principal objectives. It is intended as a particular point of entry into the general history of Britain, namely the decisions made by governments over the generations. Secondly, it is an introduction to the study of public policy as such, especially at the university and college level. Finally, there is the hope that the book will provide perspectives for those who are currently involved or interested in policy making.

For those who wish to concentrate on a part of the period an effort has been made in the text to facilitate this through the division of the books into five time-spans. Similarly the book can be used thematically: each of the principal items of the policy agenda can be selectively followed over the full period. The literature listed has been generated largely in the 1960s and 1970s.

The discussion involves thinking at two levels. There is first the need to see each area of state action as a problem in its own limited terms, capable in some degree of being isolated from the others.