The privatisation of state assets and state commercial companies
Citation:
McDowell, Moore. 'Symposium on the privatisation of state assets and state commercial companies'. - Dublin: Journal of the Statistical and Social Inquiry Society of Ireland,Vol. XXV, Pt. V, 1987/1988, pp69-89Download Item:
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Abstract:
This paper is meant to offer an outline of some theoretical and empirical
considerations affecting privatisation. The emphasis in on the implications of
the economics of property rights for the implementation of economic policy. Its
main conclusion is that privatisation is, for the most part an unnecessary
exercise, and is really only justified in limited circumstances. Most of the
advantages associated with privatisation are in fact due to commercialisation
and liberalisation. In a competitive environment, the nett efficiency gain from
privatisation is likely to be small if it exists at all.
The paper outlines reasons for suspecting that some of the motives behind the
drive towards privatisation are based on misunderstandings about its end
results. "Popular Capitalism", or "solving the national debt problem" turn out
to be doubtful starters.
Part I contains some comments on the issues - the objectives of privatisation.
Part II looks at the basis for the perceived "inefficiency' of public sector
production. Part III surveys some empirical and theoretical evidence on the
consequences of privatisation and liberalisation. Part IV attempts to draw
some conclusions for Ireland.
Description:
Read before the Society, 3 December 1987
Author: McDowell, Moore
Other Titles:
Symposium on the Privatisation of State Assets and State Commercial CompaniesPublisher:
Statistical and Social Inquiry Society of IrelandType of material:
Journal articleCollections:
Series/Report no:
Journal of the Statistical and Social Inquiry Society of IrelandVol. XXV, Pt. V, 1987/1988
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Full text availableKeywords:
Privatisation, ProductivityISSN:
00814776Licences: