ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the historical development of pressure group politics in postwar Britain. Particular emphasis is given to the evolving relations between the main sectional groups and government and to the rapid development of cause groups, especially in the context of new social movements. Close relations between the state and the large producer groups and professional associations began during the war when the state took over total responsibility for the economy, including industrial and agricultural production, an emergency hospital service and other aspects of the nation's health. Corporatism refers to a form of sectional group relationships with government in which the major sectional groups representing employers and trade unions work together with government in the making and implementation of industrial and economic policy. This chapter ends with a brief look at groups' relations with New Labour after 1997, with special reference to contrasts and continuities with earlier phases.
