ABSTRACT
Industrial conversion of arms industries has an important part to play in a socialist industrial strategy. A conversion programme could be a part of an industrial strategy aimed at reshaping British industry, both in its structure and its products. The National Enterprise Board and planning agreements would have a crucial part to play in assuring public accountability and participation of all levels of the workforce in framing policy. Arms cuts and industrial conversion are best conceived of within the context shaped by the policies of the 1974 October election manifesto. A distinction between two types of arms cut – what might be called piecemeal and wholesale – is generally recognized; for the purpose of this paper it is necessary to make a further distinction. A more serious problem is posed in considering transfer of employment for administrative personnel in the Civil Service and industry and for officers.
