Nicholas Deakin is Professor of Social Policy and Administration, University of Birmingham. He has been Private Secretary to Minister of State 1962-3; Head of Central Policy Unit, GLC, 1972-80; Scientific Advisor, Department of Health, 1986-91; Vice-Chairman, Social Affairs Committee, ESRC, 1984-6; Chair, Social Policy Association, 1989-92.

• Preface ; Introduction ; 1. The Experience of Change in the UK Public Service ; 2. Understanding the Process of Public Service Management Change ; 3. The Introduction of Contracts ; 4. The Research Investigation ; 5. Structures for and of Contracting ; 6. Markets ; 7. Managing Contracts ; 8. The Context of Change ; 9. The Contract Revolution: The International Experience ; 10. Conclusion ; Appendix 1: Analysing Contracts ; Appendix 2: Attitudes ; References

This analysis provides a detailed and incisive explanation of the various states of market and contract development in these public services. Additional insight is provided by reflections on the international experience of contracting in seven countries...This excellent book is an appropriate tribute to [Kieran Walsh's] legacy. Health Service Journal January 1998.