An overview of Bill McCarthy's academic and political engagement with industrial relations

This article reviews Lord (Bill) McCarthy's contributions to industrial relations research and his related engagement with national policy making over the period 1964 to 1997. In this process the academics and academic institutions which were integral to Bill's work are also noted as is Bill's development as one of Britain's leading arbitrators. An attempt is also made to capture some of the character of Bill's work including his sometimes combative approach to discussions in seminars and other forums. His determination to contribute work which both made a difference and aided the Labour Movement is also stressed. Last, the six companion pieces, all written by people who knew Bill personally but who explore different aspects of his work, are briefly introduced.