ABSTRACT
The system of business interest representation in Britain exhibits relatively few of the neo-corporatist traits to be found in many other European countries. In terms of structure, the system of business interest representation is highly pluralist, with associations overlapping one another and even competing for members and influence in many industrial sectors. In terms of function, most associations operate as classic representative bodies in the pluralistic mould, seeking to exert influence on the formation and implementation of government policy, rather than acting as neocorporatist intermediaries with responsibility for the implementation of particular policies delegated to them by government. Indeed the members and staffs of the associations generally show little enthusiasm for assuming such functions. As the director of one major trade association put it to the writer, there was ‘ample scope for more professional discharge of the traditional tasks of a trade association before we think about other tasks that might be done. The problem of associations [in this sector] is that they haven’t got to first base because they lack the resources and drive.’
