Statutory Authorities for Special Purposes

This book explores the development of key local governance bodies in England, tracing their impact on modern local government services. Statutory Authorities for Special Purposes provides valuable insights.

Originally published in 1963, Statutory Authorities for Special Purposes offers an in-depth analysis of various organizations that played significant roles in local governance during the eighteenth century. The book focuses on the structure and development of the Commissioners of Sewers, the Incorporated Guardians of the Poor, the Turnpike Trusts, and the Improvement Commissioners. Through this exploration, the authors illustrate how these bodies laid the groundwork for many of today's local government services.

The authors, Mr. and Mrs. Webb, delve into the constitutional features of these statutory authorities, supporting their argument that the origins of contemporary local government can be traced back to these early institutions. Their meticulous examination reveals how these organizations evolved and adapted to the changing societal needs of the time, highlighting their importance in the historical context of English governance.

A particularly compelling aspect of Statutory Authorities for Special Purposes is found in the final two chapters, which provide a comprehensive analysis of English Local Government from the Revolution to the Municipal Corporations Act. The authors detail the transition from the 'Old Principles' that dominated between 1689 and 1835 to the 'New Principles' that emerged, offering readers a valuable summary of the first four volumes and a clearer understanding of the evolution of local governance in England.