Essential Public Affairs for Journalists is the definitive handbook for journalism students and practising journalists. It guides readers through the constitutional framework and the governing institutions of the United Kingdom before considering the electoral system and the principal political parties. A number of key topics are discussed in turn including the National Health Service, education, utilities and industry, and social security. The author examines both how these services operate and how they can generate a wealth of reports for the student and professional journalist alike. The text is supported by an Online Resource Centre featuring: - Web links - Additional topical feature ideas - Tables to accompany the text - News feeds