Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.The five surveys in this group comprise a comparative study in local government of the cities of Glasgow and Belfast. The purpose of the study was to devise and test a comprehensive framework which draws together the results of previous findings and theory, within which the effects of political stratification can be investigated. Also to investigate correlates of political stability by comparing Belfast (unstable) with Glasgow (stable). With the obvious modifications (e.g. geographical, political party title, public office title, local issue reference etc.), the survey design used for the Belfast surveys is the same as that used for the Glasgow surveys. Details of variations in approach and scrutiny may be found in Appendix 1 of I Budge and C O'Leary, <i>Belfast: an approach to crisis</i>.

Main Topics:

Variables Variables as for SN:66035 (Survey of Electors in Glasgow), with modifications suggested in the introduction to this group of surveys (e.g. name of political parties, local issues considered etc.). The reader should note that when a Belfast respondent is requested to answer questions about his MP, the MP referred to will be his representative at Stormont. Local issues of topical interest which are specifically considered in this survey are as follows: a) the proposal to open swings in public parks on Sundays b) the proposal to name the new bridge over the Lagan after Lord Carson c) the suggestion that the Mater hospital should be reimbursed out of public funds for the services that it gives free of charge d) the increase in the rates e) integration of Catholic and Protestant tenants in housing estates.

Systematic probability

Face-to-face interview