The Ownership of British Industry

Many modern theories of managerial behaviour are based on the initial observation of the separation of ownership and control. This article is concerned with the ownership of British industry. Statistics are presented relating to the pattern of UK share ownership both now and in the future. Emphasis is placed on the persistent and rapid growth in equity holdings by financial institutions—insurance companies, pension funds, investment trust companies and unit trusts. Some concluding comments are made on the possibility of greater managerial participation by major financial institutions, and hence the possible convergence of ownership and control.