The manufacturing failure hypothesis and the performance of British industry during the long boom

This article assesses the hypothesis that British manufacturing failed during the boom years, 1950-73. Productivity growth rates in British manufacturing were almost identical to those in German industry when measured correctly. By comparing British and US 'manufacturing footprints' (the proportion of manufacturing net value added produced in establishments of differing size and the relative productivity levels), the article questions the empirical foundations of Britain's alleged 'large-plant problem' and its alleged failures in Fordist mass production. The case is also made for a less pessimistic assessment of Britain's manufacturing trade performance during the period.