Policy Press

Outsourcing in the UK

Policies, Practices and Outcomes

By Janice Morphet

Published

Apr 15, 2021

Page count

258 pages

ISBN

978-1529209600

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Apr 15, 2021

Page count

258 pages

ISBN

978-1529209624

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Apr 15, 2021

Page count

258 pages

ISBN

978-1529209624

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press
Outsourcing in the UK

In this comprehensive account, Janice Morphet analyses the role and use of outsourcing within the UK public sector since the mid-1970s.

Morphet examines the many drivers for the use of outsourcing in the public sector, including international agreements, new public management, performativity and austerity. She also takes in to account the role and failures of the private sector and its response to the opening up of public sector competition.

By investigating the way that outsourcing has been used in different service sectors and across scales, the book illustrates the impact it has had on ideology, policy narratives and public expectations in the present.

“The book as a whole provides a coherent exploration of the topic and case, with little weakness overall. I enjoyed this book and recommend it for scholars interested in this topic generally and in the UK case specifically.” Public Organization Review

“Janice Morphet has produced an authoritative and first class account of outsourcing in the UK. The book is a ‘must read’ for students, researchers and teachers of public administration.” John Connolly, University of the West of Scotland

“A scholarly and authoritative text for anyone interested or involved in outsourcing. Impressive in scope, it draws on multiple geographical scales and sectors, but is also embedded in broader narratives, ideologies and public perceptions on the topic. Illuminates in one place a hitherto disparate knowledge base.” Joyce Liddle, Northumbria University

“This timely volume addresses the much neglected but important topic: how governments deliver goods and services to their citizens. Using an impressive range of policy areas, this analysis exposes the intensely political nature of outsourcing.” Claire A. Dunlop, University of Exeter

Janice Morphet has had a career in academia, local and central government and is now Visiting Professor in the Bartlett School of Planning, University College London.

Introduction

The Legal Basis for Competition in Public Services

Competition in Utilities

Preparing to Outsource Government Services

Local Government: Compulsory Competition and Best Value

Creating the Public Services Market

Outsourcing Central Government Services

Liberalising Health Services and Functions

Outsourcing in Education

The Third Sector and Social Value

Taking Back Service Delivery

Conclusions