In this HEPI paper, two authors with considerable expertise in evaluating higher education systems around the world assess higher education institutions that are not funded directly by taxpayers--known in the UK as alternative providers. Since the start of the century, alternative providers have been growing rapidly. This raises a number of…

Reviews the first five years of Independent Local Radio (ILR), a broadcasting system comprised of locally managed and directed stations which originate virtually all their own material. ILR programing, which is designed to provide an attractive and well-rounded service for local listeners, is financed by advertisements. (RAO)

Examines developments in information technology that might endanger individual privacy and legislative responses to these threats by the English-speaking democracies, i.e., Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Guidelines for the responsible use of information technologies are proposed. (CLB)

A study examined 90 newspaper reports from the local and provincial press in Great Britain which covered the relaunch of Mencap, the largest national charity for people with learning disabilities. Mencap has adopted a new corporate style, a new logo, and a new "positive" image to reflect changing attitudes about disabilities. Using for…