This is the long--awaited third edition of Dearlove and Saundersa highly acclaimed, best--selling, textbook on British politics. The book has been completely rewritten, reorganized and updated, while retaining the distinctive style and approach of the earlier editions. At root, this book is about political power -- how it is organized formally within the State and how it is exercised and influenced informally from outside. Written in lively and provocative prose, the volume presents the most systematic and penetrating analysis of who really runs Britain, to what end, and to whose advantage. Fully up to date, this new edition provides comprehensive coverage of the issues of the day -- constitutional change, welfare reform, New Laboura s Third Way, the European common currency, globalization, and much more. The volume also provides students with a highly readable and engaging guide to the key theoretical perspectives that have shaped the study of British politics. This outstanding volume will prove invaluable reading for all students of British politics, whether they are studying for A--level or undergraduate university courses. Please visit the accompanying website at: http://www.polity.co.uk/britpol