The new style of hands-off management involves setting the framework in which net-
works work but keeping an arm’s length relationship.For example,a central department
can: provide the policy framework and policy guidance,prod the network into action
by systematic review and scrutiny of its work,use patronage to put one of its own in
key positions;mobilize resources and skills across sectors:regulate the network and its.
members;and provide advice and assistance (Cm 2811,1995;Rhodes 1997 and citations).
Such steering may be imperfect but just as there are limits to central command,there are
limits to independent action by self-organizing networks.