ABSTRACT
If one is to consider the ways in which regional policy might be developed so as to become more effective, or even if the aim is simply to evaluate existing measures, the right starting point is to consider the underlying causes of the problem. But the costs and benefits would need to be assessed, and policy should be directed to minimizing locational disadvantage so far as is possible by such measures as improved infrastructure and concentration on growth areas. The early period, during which Scotland's and Wales's industry by industry performance lagged behind Britain, covers the years in the 'fifties when regional policy was almost in abeyance and little effort was made to encourage firms to set up in the problem regions. Since coal, ship-building and textiles are heavily represented in the problem regions, and are either declining or slow-growing industries, the structural argument clearly has some validity.
