ABSTRACT

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the problems of 'outer-Britain'. It explores the cumulative processes of development which allowed the South East and West Midlands to emerge as the main centres for dynamic, modern, industry – a status that the South East at least has retained and consolidated over subsequent decades. This book examines the impacts of the new conditions on the staple industries which dominated the industrial areas of northern Britain. It provides a detailed examination of the factors underpinning industrial prosperity and economic expansion in the South East and West Midlands. The book examines the growth of new industrial centres within these regions and the reasons behind their success in attracting firms in a diverse range of branded and assembly consumer goods industries. It examines the interwar development of rural and coastal Britain.