Factors influencing the relative industrial performance of Japan, Germany, USA and UK. I. Industrial structure, and capital and investment

The first of a series of three articles in which the author explores some of the underlying factors which continue to influence competitive industrial performance. In the post Second World War years Japan and Germany have built more prosperous economies than the UK and have seemingly threatened to overtake the USA. Social cohesion has provided their foundations for success, but in both countries it has been achieved too expensively. The author concludes that there is now enough evidence to guide the UK to emulate successful elements of their economies while avoiding their mistakes, but we need Government-led initiatives to improve vital industrial relationships.<>