Robinson (economics, U. of Surrey, UK) presents revised versions of the 2004 Beesley Lectures, organized jointly by the London Business School and the Institute of Economic Affairs in order to bring together utility regulators and other commentators to discuss issues of utility regulation and competition policy. Topics include the future of the British railways in light of the government's rail review 2004, the economic and politics of wind power, international trade in gas and prospects for UK gas supplies, the role of economics in merger review, mergers and comparative competition in the water industry, and privatization and regulation in developing country. Papers are frequently accompanied by commentaries by scholars, business representatives, and others.