This book highlights how the plight of single mothers, the problem of funding pensioners, and the future of the welfare state, all depend on demographic trends in society. "This is an impressive book. It fills an important niche in the available literature. It is extremely readable and provides an excellent introduction to the study of population change in Britain and a masterly overview of current trends. The aims and sentiments of this author are admirable" A.G.Champion, Geographical Journal Nov 1999