Analyses the process of reform that led to the formation of the London County Council, the forces that shaped it, and the role played by local and national politicians in its establishment. This work, an account of the economic, social, and administrative complexities of Victorian London, is for all those interested in the 'metropolitan problem.'

Dr Davis' contribution lies in his analysis of London's particular social and political characteristics and their affect on the process of reform during the nineteenth century. His conclusions on the role of political and other loyalties and interests add a new and important dimension to the debate on the process of London government reform.

`Dr Davis' contribution lies in his analysis of London's particular social and political characteristics and their affect on the process of reform during the nineteenth century. His conclusions on the role of political and other loyalties and interests add a new and important dimension to the debate on the process of London government reform. ' P. L. Garside, University of Salford. Planning Perspectives `an astute examination based on careful and well documented research ... The approach is richly detailed yet not so immersed in minutiae as to lose sight of the general issues. ' David R. Green, Kings College, London, Journal of Historical Geography `magnificent book ... Davis' work is absorbing, comprehensively researched, convincing in argument and written in fine style. I enjoyed reading it enormously and can recommend it warmly. ' Stephen Merrett, University College London, Scandinavian Housing & Planning Research 7:1990 `This book is outstanding when dealing with links between national politics and London politics, but virtually ignores local and metropolitan functions and policies. This approach will do much to complement previous work and it is to be hoped that a new synthesis will now emerge. ' Anthony Sutcliffe, English Historical Review `The book is outstanding when dealing with links between national politics and London politics ... This approach will do much to complement previous work and it is to be hoped that a new synthesis will now emerge. ' John Roach, University of Sheffield, EHR Oct. 91