The present book sets out to support rational choices in this matter by drawing conclusions from three approaches. The first is a systematic analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The second is an empirical investigation into the consistency of governance between policy areas and between levels of government. The third approach concentrates on effectiveness; what works to realise the objectives of the major socio- economic policy fields of the EU. They comprise competitiveness, macro and monetary, cohesion, environment, employment and external.