The organisational landscape of the English horse industry: a contrast with Sweden and the Netherlands

Abstract

This thesis contrasts the equine policy networks and organisational landscapes of the horse industry in England, Sweden and the Netherlands. In order to analyse each network the conceptual framework offered by the Marsh-Rhodes policy network typology is adopted, while the dimensions of membership, integration, resources and power are specifically considered. The origins and development of each policy network studied are analysed, along with an appraisal of their inherent characteristics. The cultivation and maintenance of consistency, communication and collaboration within a diverse policy network are examined. In addition, the influence of a diverse policy network on policy decision making is explored. The importance of relationships between key individuals within policy networks is analysed, along with the significance of the micro and macro levels of the networks. Finally, the future development of the equine policy network and horse industry in England for the benefit of interest groups and the government is considered.

Within each policy network a specific organisation which acted as the mouthpiece for interest groups within the network to the government was identified. However, the structure of each of these bodies and their mode of operation differed considerably between countries. In Sweden and the Netherlands, the connection between the equine and agricultural policy networks was shown to be significant in the development of the relationship between interest groups within the horse industry and the government. In both countries an organisation from the agricultural sector expedited the development of this relationship. The level of government intervention and financial support afforded to each horse industry varied. Significant differences in key sub-sectors of each of the policy networks studied, specifically sport and recreation, and breeding, were identified, while recent developments in the European-wide equine policy network were also examined.