,. In this and the following chapter we examine
the interface between the public and the private sectors and, in particular, the way in
which government policy decisions can impact on the operations of both firms and
markets, whether by legislation and regulation or by influencing consumer behaviour.
As a prelude to examining the policy aspect of the business relationship, it is useful to
begin by recalling the various key roles that government can (and does) play in a
modern economy. A typical list would include the following: