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Libertarian paternalism as a tool to explore strategic sub-regional planning in England?

Pemberton, S; Morphet, J

Authors

J Morphet



Abstract

Across Europe, a series of revisions and realignments are currently taking place in sub-national governance structures. In England, this involves the creation of a new scalar construct through the dismantling of the regional tier and the creation of new sub-regional institutions. Through focusing on the move towards subsidiarity, this article considers the extent to which libertarian paternalism—or “don't do anything unless you have to”—and the adoption of some of these key principles by the UK government—can help to illuminate and explain such contemporary processes of restructuring and rescaling of governance. In turn, the article considers (i) the form, process and outcomes of planning practices within this restructuring; and (ii) the implications arising in respect of the democratic accountability and strategic efficiency of the new arrangements, and the interests that are being privileged therein.

Acceptance Date Jun 15, 2012
Publication Date Sep 25, 2013
Journal European Planning Studies
Print ISSN 0965-4313
Publisher Routledge
Pages 2020 - 2036
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2012.722971
Publisher URL https://doi.org/10.1080/09654313.2012.722971