The British Civil Service

An introduction to the historical development, nature, organization and role of the British civil service and an analysis of its importance as a political institution. The key precepts of permanency, neutrality and ministerial responsibility are outlined and a comparison made between the British civil service and other executives. The book also covers changes occurring in the civil service as a result of the Ibbs Report and the Next Steps Initiative, and looks at the relationship between Whitehall and Brussels. Up-to-date coverage includes the recent institutional changes and proposals for further reform.

Robert Pyper is currently Senior Lecturer in the Department of Law and Public Administration at Glasgow Caledonian University.