British Poltical Elite

This book is essential reading not only for sociologists and political scientists but for all good citizens and aspiring politicians. History and statistics combine to give a sharp new picture of the men of power and their paths to success in our changing democracy. It is a study of those who govern Britain: M.P's, Party Leaders, the Cabinet. We see the evolution of the British Political Elite from a small and tightly knit oligarchy at the begin ning of Victoria's reign to the more complex social patterns of government and Parliament today. The book traces both the decline of aristocracy and the persistence of the middle class grip on political power. It is not only concerned with major political figures, but also with party 'loyalists' and 'rebels', with the influence of party organisations and with the quality of the men selected for Parliament and for office.

The reasons why men enter politics affect the good they may do. The progress from the 'inevitable Parliament men' to our profes sional politicians has accompanied and accelerated changes in the political system. Today governments must rely on a host of auxiliary bodies-committees and agencies which administer, advise and investigate. Do they threaten the political élite, are they a danger to parliamentary democracy? Analysis of such groups throws a new light on these dark places.