Essential Public Affairs for Journalists is the definitive handbook for journalism students looking for a firm foundation in their understanding of central and local government. 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 informative stories. End-of-chapter features summarize the key points from each chapter, allowing students to recap on areas that are likely to be examined. 'Topical Feature Ideas' support the development of research skills, enabling students to pinpoint the facts they need to write a compelling article. Online Resources Further 'Topical Feature Ideas' can be found with the online resources that accompany this book, which also include links to reliable and informative sources.