A New Business Agenda for Government

Article

This book assesses the effectiveness of the current Corporate Social Responsibility agenda and looks at its true potential. It considers the successes and failings of the Government's 'soft' interventions used to prompt voluntary support of its policies.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to business activity that benefits society. It is a phrase adopted by Government to promote social and environmental action that goes beyond statutory obligations. But how effective is the CSR agenda and what is its true potential?

This report considers the successes and failings of the Government's 'soft' interventions used to prompt voluntary support of its policies. It argues for a new business agenda for Government, driven by public values rather than private gain. Reforms must be put in place to mobilise pressure from investors and other stakeholders in order to align the interests of business and society.

This report is essential reading for CSR sceptics and believers alike. "Ella Joseph's report charts a new agenda for government in its relations with business and the citizen, and shows why companies should be required to report on their social and environmental performance in the public interest."

- Barbara Young, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency

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