Originally published in 1976, this book examines how and why local government reforms came about and what influences, pressures and compromises were involved. At the time of publication it provided the most detailed account so far of the process by which the 1972 Local Government Act was approved by Parliament following the Redcliffe-Maud report and two White Papers. At the same time, as a case study of the British policy-making process, it examines more general issues about the political manoeuvring of groups in conflict, the concept of ‘government by Commission’ and the range of strategies which were open to Government decision makers. The book will prove essential reading for students of the history of British Government policy-making and political processes, and of administrative change and innovation.