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The emergence of networked governance of knowledge activities is portrayed as one component of a more general shift from government to governance. This article suggests that a distinction can be drawn between networks and networked governance and provides some insights into the indicators that might help distinguish networked governance from networks. The distinction is applied empirically to emerging forms of local networks in ICT in Limerick and Karlskrona. Differences between the two regions can be conceptualised with reference to the governance role of local networks in steering, setting directions and influencing behaviour. The article identifies the characteristics of network arrangements that appear to be necessary for governance objectives to be satisfied; these are density, breadth and association with values such as trust, mutuality and shared identity. The article shows that there is a need to approach generalised theories of emerging models of governance with sensitivity to cross-regional variations around these characteristics. Claims regarding the emergence of new forms of governance in local spaces may be exaggerated if all types of network arrangements are taken as evidence of a transformation from government to governance.

This paper examines recent European policy changes designed to support small and medium size enterprises (SMEs). These changes have resulted in both the development of specific support programs for SMEs and more general deregulatory measures to improve the economic environment for business. The rationale often provided is that SMEs contribute to a dynamic and innovative environment and generate high quality employment. An analysis of OECD material and a review of the literature on SMEs reveals that their role in innovation, employment growth and the adoption of new forms of work organisation is often over-emphasised. The vast majority of SMEs do not carry out research and development and are associated with low quality and insecure employment. Policies in support of SMEs need to be formulated with an awareness of the diversity of SMEs. There are only a very limited number of SMEs which make an important contribution to employment and innovation. Efforts to facilitate the establishment and growth of these high quality SMEs need to be based on targeted programs rather than general measures such as tax reduction or labour market deregulation. Targeted policies include R&D support, the improvement of SMEs' intangible investments and regional access to capital and technology. General measures are more likely to create an environment in which low quality, low wage employment is generated in SMEs with little future.

Examines development of support programs and more general deregulatory measures to improve economic environment; shift from large to small businesses, innovation, employment, technology, and policy implications; since the 1970s, chiefly.

An analysis of recent policy developments that seek to address the ecological impact of energy reveals a major short-fall in Australian public policy. Notwithstanding some important recent initiatives Australia's general environmental policy performance continues to lag significantly behind that of the international community. This short-fall is explained, in large part due to the dominance of neo-liberalism over much of Australia's policy regime. This policy approach acts to constrain effective governance of private industry, promotes cost minimisation in the pursuit of international competitiveness often at the expense of prudent and responsible environmental conservation. The case of the energy sector is germane to understanding this failure to meet internationally respectable greenhouse gas emission targets at Kyoto. The power of this sector within the national economy acts to constrain government policy and to reinforce neo-liberal dogma which acts to the detriment of the nation's international standing on matters of environmental protection.