Images into models: The subjective world of the policy maker

The approach discussed here allows the user to explore a future that is grounded in his or her own beliefs and values. In particular, attention is paid to qualitative and subjective elements of images of the future, which make up an important part of the politics in policy making.     

Front‐line managers as agents in the HRM‐performance causal chain: theory,analysis and evidence

Research on the link between HRM and organisational performance has neglected the role of front‐line managers, yet it is these managers who are increasingly charged with the implementation of many HR practices. Using an employee survey in 12 ‘excellent’ companies we explore the extent to which employee commitment towards their employer and their job are influenced by the quality of leadership behaviour and by satisfaction with HR practices. Both have a strong effect on employee attitudes. The article concludes with a case study of a planned effort to improve front‐line managers' skills in people management.     

Tax, Corporate Behaviour and the Foreign Income Dividend Scheme

A model is derived which considers the interactions of corporation tax, advance corporation tax (ACT) and capital gains tax and their impact on UK corporate behaviour. It is shown that the recent changes to the ACT system, in the form of the Foreign Income Dividend (FID) scheme, will increase the gearing ratios of those firms affected by the changes. Debt will become more attractive, since it no longer increases irrecoverable ACT by reducing taxable profits. Furthermore, retention rates will fall, since retentions no longer serve as an ACT shield.     

Implications Of the AWA Decision For External Auditors, Internal Auditors And Management

The decision in AWA Ltd v Daniels has important implications for auditors, directors and other professionals providing accounting services to clients. Previously, where the external auditor had been negligent, Australian courts awarded full damages against the auditor in favour of the plaintiff In AWA, a defence of contributory negligence succeeded and damages were apportioned between the company and the external auditor. Also, the auditor succeeded in a claim for contribution against the chief executive officer. This paper analyses the implications of the AWA decision for internal and external auditors and management. It examines issues related to contributory negligence and contribution. These issues are important in the light of recent discussion about reform of the law concerning "proportional" liability.