Shipbuilding in the United Kingdom: A History of the British Shipbuilders Corporation

Shipbuilding in the United Kingdom provides a systematic historical account of the British Shipbuilders Corporation, tracing its evolution from private enterprise to state control and back to private hands. It benefits from comprehensive archival research and interviews with key players in the industry, making it a valuable resource for advanced students and researchers in business history, economic history, industrial history, labor history, maritime history, and British history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Shipbuilding in the United Kingdom offers a comprehensive historical account of the British Shipbuilders Corporation, exploring its evolution under private enterprise, state control, and subsequent return to private ownership. The book delves into the intricate dynamics of public policy regarding shipbuilding, ship repair, and large marine engine building, tracing the shifting tides of policy under different Labour and Conservative governments. Through extensive archival research and interviews conducted in the 1990s with key industry figures, politicians, shipbuilders, trade union leaders, and senior civil servants, the book provides a rich tapestry of insights into the industry's past. This authoritative monograph serves as a valuable resource for advanced students and researchers in the fields of business history, economic history, industrial history, labour history, maritime history, and British history.

The chapters of the book meticulously trace the evolution of public policy concerning shipbuilding, ship repair, and large marine engine building. They examine the responses of the British Shipbuilders Corporation, trade unions, and local management to these policy changes, shedding light on their strategies, challenges, and successes. The book's rich archival research and interviews with prominent figures from the industry provide a firsthand perspective on the industry's historical trajectory.

One of the key strengths of the book is its comprehensive coverage of the political and economic factors that shaped the shipbuilding industry. It explores the interplay between government policies, trade union demands, and market dynamics, highlighting the complex relationships and tensions that existed within the industry. The book also delves into the social and cultural implications of shipbuilding, examining the impact of technological advancements, labor practices, and the changing nature of work on the workers and communities involved.

The book's insights into the British Shipbuilders Corporation's operations and management are particularly valuable. It provides a detailed account of the corporation's history, its organizational structure, and its strategies for survival and growth. The book also sheds light on the challenges faced by the corporation, including competition from foreign shipbuilders, technological advancements, and changes in the global shipping market.

In conclusion, Shipbuilding in the United Kingdom is a meticulously researched and comprehensive historical account of the British Shipbuilders Corporation. It offers valuable insights into the industry's evolution, public policy, and the complex relationships that shaped it. The book's rich archival research, comprehensive coverage, and insightful analysis make it a valuable resource for advanced students and researchers in the fields of business history, economic history, industrial history, labour history, maritime history, and British history.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367687038