Using a “power struggles” theme to examine the dynamics of budgeting, Rubin’s classic text shines a bright light on the political jockeying between interest groups, parties, officials, policymakers, and the public. Expert at explaining budgeting changes over time, Rubin sets issues like the federal deficit and health care expenditures in political and comparative context. Analyzing each strand of the decision-making process, Rubin shows the extraordinary coordination involved in passing a budget and achieving accountability.

The Inspector General (IG)'s mission is to expose fraud, waste and abuse as well as promoting efficiency in federal agencies. Each year billions of dollars are returned to the Federal government or are better spent based on recommendations from IGs reports. IG investigations have also contributed to the prosecution of thousands of wrongdoers including contractors and public employees. With scarce literature on Inspectors General (IGs), Apaza addresses this by looking at the Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which has proven to be of significant benefit to the US government.

Worldwide, there is considerable interest in postal and delivery economics. Governments, particularly in the European Union, are examining closely the roles of the two systems and how best to regulate them. This volume brings together 20 essays originally presented at the 12th Conference on Postal and Delivery Economics held in Cork, Ireland in June 2004. Contributors include researchers, practitioners, and senior managers from throughout the world.