Showing papers by "Matthew Flinders published in 2002"

Governance in Whitehall

Abstract: Governance theory raises conceptual and theoretical questions about the coordination of complex social systems and the evolving role of the state within that process. A central aspect of the governance debate focuses on the ability of national governments to address salient social issues. This article examines the British Labour governments’ attempts to facilitate cross-departmental inter-organizational collaboration within Whitehall in an attempt to develop innovative responses to seemingly intractable social problems. The government’s desire and strategy to increase its capacity to orchestrate ‘joined-up’ government can be interpreted as both an acceptance and a response to the challenges of modern governance. The article locates the structural, procedural and cultural responses to this challenge within the theoretical and analytical framework of governance theory. It concludes by suggesting that meaningful change in the way public policy is designed and implemented may well demand a more deep seated reappraisal of the structure of Whitehall and the dominant values of the British political elite than is currently anticipated.

The Politics of Accountability in the Modern State

Abstract: Part 1 History and theory: reinventing accountability. Part 2 Accountability models and case study analysis: parliamentary accountability parliamentary accountability and the Home Office judicial accountability judicial accountability in the Home Office managerial accountability and the contract state managerial accountability and the Home Office. Part 3 Freedom of information and conclusion: the executive morality and inverted conventions - ministerial responsibiity and freedom of information understanding the politics of accountability.

Shifting the Balance? Parliament, the Executive and the British Constitution:

Abstract: This article examines the paradoxes of parliamentary reform. Focusing mainly on the House of Commons, the first section highlights the contradictory roles of parliament and utilizes a distinction b...