First Published in 1992

This volume, based on a special issue of the journal Local Government Studies, takes up a leading issue of the structure and role of the political executive in the context of the inaugurated British Government (1987-92).

It does so by reference to examples from Norway, Sweden, Germany, and Italy as the countries selected for this volume all, to some degree, share with Britain a more collective style of political leadership.

This is indispensable reading for all those wishing to gain a more balanced understanding of the contemporary role of Parliaments in Western Europe.