This study investigates what has happened to the Welfare State in Britain since 1974. It examines in particular the similarities and differences in trends during the period of Labour Government from 1974-1979 and the period of Conservative Government from 1979 to 1986. The subjects covered include education, health services, housing, personal social services, and social security. For each area the authors examine the evolution and development of policy, trends in public expenditure in real terms; trends in the demand for and utilization of different services; and trends in the outcome of policy. The last two parts make particular use of data available from the General Household Survey.