ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the machinery of planning, it seems best to begin by considering in very broad outline what the complete structure of a system of planned production would have to be in an advanced industrial community, and to defer consideration of the stages by which such a structure could be brought into being. Account will have to be taken of any known factors likely to cause an increase or decrease of demand at the current prices; and in this field the sectional planning authority for each industry or service will need to be provided with advance estimates of requirements by its principal customers—for example, by the authorities responsible for the control of retail trade and by any public agencies likely to make important requisitions for goods during the next planning period. It is natural in this connection to look to the experience of Russia, as the one country which has hitherto attempted to introduce a comprehensive national plan.
