Evolution of British social policy and the welfare state

"Treating important topics chronologically and in clearly defined sections, the book provides a well-argued appraisal of the Poor Law, the factory question, education, poverty and philanthropy, the social impact of the two world wars, the Attlee years and the challenge to the Welfare State since 1951. For the first time it offers a valuable examination of the latest historiography, together with a detailed look at the 1950-93 period." "Professor Laybourn assesses notable recent developments, analysing the extent to which today's welfare decisions are being made on political rather than economic or social grounds. Other key features include extracts from significant documents, a section on policing, and original material on voluntary help, the state and the influence of Labour politics - all of which add to the impact of this major work on a subject of topical as well as historical concern."--BOOK JACKET.