The Evolution of Conservative Party Social Policy [Hardcover]

This book addresses how the Conservative Party has re-focused its interest in social policy. Analysing to what extent the Conservatives have changed within this particular policy sphere, the book explores various theoretical, social, political, and electoral dimensions of the subject matter.List of tables and figures Introduction and Background 1. Ideological Influences on Conservative Party Social Policy 2. The 'New Right' and its Impact on Conservative Social Policy 3. Conservatism and Social Justice in Theory 4. Social Policy Case Study 1: Modern Conservatism, Practical Social Justice and Welfare Reform 5. Social Policy Case Study 2: 'The Big Society' Policy Framework 6. Social Policy Case Study 3: The 'Free Schools' Policy Agenda  7. Social Policy Case Study 4: Reform of the NHS Conclusion: The Nature and Evolution of Contemporary Conservative Social Policy Bibliography

'Ben Williams' insightful text offers a vital contribution towards understanding the extent to which, after five years in government, the 'progressive' and 'liberal' 'new conservatism' that emphasises social justice, articulated by the Conservative Party under David Cameron, has been grounded in a consistent and coherent social policy agenda, or was merely bold rhetoric.'

David S. Moon, Lecturer in Politics, University of Bath, UK

'As part of his modernising project David Cameron pledged to fix Britain's 'broken society' and create a 'Big Society'. In this insightful new study Ben Williams investigates the origins of these ideas, how far they were implemented, and the conflicts around them. It is essential reading for understanding this key episode in the development of modern Conservatism.'

Andrew Gamble, Professor of Politics, University of Cambridge, UK

'Dr Ben Williams has produced an impressive account of the evolution of the Conservative Party's thinking on social policy. He rightly identifies the keylÃ@