Patterns Of Persistence And Mobility In Gdp Per Head Across Gb Counties

This paper examines patterns of persistence, mobility, convergence and divergence in the shape and evolution of the distribution of GDP per head across Great Britain (GB). Using a distribution dynamics approach, the evidence suggests that there is no pattern of overall convergence and a number of counties are persistently located at the extremes of the distribution. While there is some evidence of a north‐south divide, fragmented islands and sub‐regions of persistence are located across geographical space. This pattern of persistence and divergence coexists with upwards and downwards intra‐distributional mobility, some of which appears to exhibit specific spatial patterns. The evidence is more consistent with approaches emphasising uneven development than theories predicting economic convergence.