The Evolution of the Single European Market provides a detailed empirical and theoretical analysis of the impact of the Single European Market - one of the most significant developments in the world economy in the late twentieth century.A distinguished group of contributors examines how the Single Market has developed in practice and the impact it has had on industry regions and groups in society. They chart the likely future course of further integration in the light of public choice theory, subsidiarity and the current experience within the Single Market. The differences between the member states are analysed in detail as are the reasons why it has been so difficult to obtain agreement. They examine, from an evolutionary approach, issues such as competition law, the Single European Act, the unofficial means of implementation and enforcement, 'competition among rules', and the social dimension and external impact of the Single Market. The contributors include lawyers, economists, political scientists, sociologists and regional scientists, whose contribution stems from the work of over one hundred researchers across Europe in a linked programme of projects.

This forward looking book will be required reading for researchers and students with an interest in economic and political integration as well as politicians and businesses involved in cross-border trade and investment. It will also be of interest to academics in the areas of economics, politics, law, social policy and geography.