Public choice theory and local government : a comparative analysis of the UK and the USA

This text evaluates the validity of a key proposition of public choice theory: that competition is associated with superior performance by governmental organizations.

Three forms of competition in local government are identified: competition between local authorities; competition between councils and private contractors; and competition between parties for political power.

The extent and consequences of competition are assessed in both the UK and USA.

The analysis is used to draw conclusions on the effects of competition and the validity of public choice theory.