This review contains 41 survey essays covering different aspects of contemporary developments, policy and personnel. The essays both interpret and review relevant legislation, reports, initiatives, speeches and events of the past year. The changing state of government, politics, the economy and society are examined and the introduction critically evaluates current development in recent British history and changes in the world in general. The review contains details of key posts held and new appointments in government, trade unions and political parties, as well as digests of the relevant statutes, bills, parliamentary papers, reports and enquiries published during the year. It presents statistics in tabular form for each of the 41 surveys and detailed chronologies for the general subject areas of the guide.