Malcolm Wood

...it's just politics analyses weak governance, unethical policy and misconduct in the Commonwealth of Australia over fifty years. At root is failure of leadership, whose foremost element is integrity. But compromise, expediency and ruthlessness are necessary to gain and retain political office and wield power; parties govern to benefit or appease constituencies; and governments naturally seek to hide their vulnerabilities and avoid accountability for their mistakes. Moreover, the public's low trust in politicians suggests low expectations. How far is integrity in democratic political leadership a practical nonsense? Dr Malcolm Wood is an historian and a former senior executive in the Australian Public Service.

Railway buildings have always had a fascinating character all of their own, despite many no longer being in operational railway service. This book tells the story of how these buildings evolved alongside the development of the railway in Great Britain and examines how architects over the years have responded to the operational, social and cultural influences that define their work. Written for those with a keen interest in architecture and the railway, as well as those new to the subject, The Architecture and Legacy of British Railway Buildings provides an unique insight into the production of railway architecture, both in the context of railway management and the significant periods of ownership, and the swings in national mood for railway-based transportation. As well as tracing its history, the authors take time to consider the legacy these buildings have left behind and the impact of heritage on a continually forward-looking industry. Topics covered include: the context of railway architecture today; the history of how it came into existence; the evolution of different railway building types; the unique aspects of railway building design, and finally, the key railway development periods and their architectural influences.