Which welfare states are most likely to survive?

This paper considers the major shocks to which modern welfare systems are h aving to adapt. These include the growing inequalities of rewards for those in work, the growing scale of unemployment, global economic pressures, the ageing of populations and the combination of fiscal constraint with rising consumer expectations. It discusses how different kinds of welfare state a n responding to these pressures and looks especially at the policies of the new Blair government. The paper concludes by suggesting that these issues are taking the UK to a distinctive welfare regime position.