De-industrialization and British regional policy

Abstract

Chisholm M. (1985) De-industrialization and British regional policy, Reg. Studies 19, 301–313. Only if very restrictive assumptions are made can the use of export-multiplier analysis lead to the conclusion that faster growth will be achieved by the limitation of imports. A more realistic view is that both import and export volumes are influenced by the competitiveness of industries, and that the ability to pay for imports is not solely dependent on the export of manufactures. Changes in competitiveness are examined at the SIC industry level and the regional implications examined. The discussion highlights supply-side variables and leads to a consideration of regional policy as an instrument for faster national economic growth in addition to its traditional re-distributive role.