Abstract/Summary

Previous studies have explained ‘passive’ British regional policy during the 1950s largely in terms of contemporary perceptions that the ‘regional problem’ was essentially solved. This article demonstrates that the continuing threat of regional decline was appreciated by the Board of Trade. Arguments in favour of an active regional policy were rejected, however, largely due to the strength of neo-liberal opposition to regional intervention within the government. The evolution of regional policy during its ‘passive’ phase, from 1951 to 1958, is examined, together with the factors which eventually led to a reversal of policy in favour of a long-term, planned, regional development strategy. The article also examines available evidence regarding the costs and benefits of the various approaches to regional policy which were implemented during this period.