This work explores the problems encountered by the parties to internal contracts, drawing on evidence from a case study of NHS contracts. It uncovers difficulties in defining the parties' roles; in maintaining good working relationships; and in securing compliance with contractual terms.

It also suggests reforms to the institutional framework for internal contracts. The book will be of interest not only to academics working in the fields of law and public administration, but to policy-makers concerned with the contractualisation of public services. It also has wider implications for the regulation of other types of government contract, and should stimulate debate among public lawyers on the neglected issue of 'government by contract'.

1 Government by Contract
2 Internal Government by Contract
3 Controversies and Reform
4 Accountability Mechanisms
5
Accountability Analysis in Practice: NHS Contracts
6 Fitting In: Interactions between Contracts and other Accountability Mechanisms
7 Getting On: Accountability Relationships and Procedural Fairness
8 Winning Out: Making the Accountability Process Effective
9 Conclusions and Prospects.