Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.

This study comprises 23 in-depth/unstructured interview transcripts and explores the effects of changing legal regulation between 1983 and 1992 on relations of power within local government. Focusing in particular on housing, education and member relations, the research explores the complex effects of legislation, case law, legal knowledge and legal culture on service delivery, structural arrangements, policy development and relations between municipal actors (councillors, officers and community representatives in particular). The investigators are also interested in the extent to which law became a 'tool' to be deployed within internal municipal conflict and struggles. Why did certain actors use law in this way? When was it so utilised? How does the utilisation of law relate to the deployment of other political resources? The methodology of the project involved case studies in four local authorities with in-depth interviews being undertaken with local officials, councillors and other relevant individuals.

Main Topics:

The relationship between the law and local government The effects of legislation on housing, education and member relations The use of law in internal municipal conflicts

Purposive selection/case studies

Face-to-face interview