Monopoly and Restrictive Practices

The control of monopoly and restrictive practices has now become an important part Allen starts with of British economic policy. Professor a discussion of the general problem of mono-poly in modern industry, which in its thoughtfulness and insight reveals his long preoccupation with the subject. He then examines the evolution of British policy towards monopoly and restrictive practices during the last twenty years and makes a balanced, critical appraisal of what has been achieved. The study is given depth by some comparisons with foreign countries.

His book provides a general introduction to the subject for students of economics or business studies, for those studying for professional qualifications as accountants, secretaries, bankers etc. and for business men and others interested in this increasingly important aspect of economic policy. Hitherto we have lacked a general review and appraisal of policy in Britain, as distinct from a detailed discussion of some particular aspect and this short authoritative introduction will be welcomed. An appendix contains some useful extracts from the legislation.

Professor G. C. Allen, CBE, FBA, is well known as the author of a number of standard books on the organization of British industry and on the Japanese economy. He was at the Board of Trade during the war, when the government's post-war mono-poly policy was first adumbrated; was for seven years a member of the Central Price Regulation Committee and for twelve years of the Monopolies (and Restrictive Practices) Commission.