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International Outsourcing and the Skill Structure of Labour Demand in the United Kingdom

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  • Hijzen, Alexander

    (OECD)

  • Görg, Holger

    (Kiel Institute for the World Economy)

  • Hine, Robert C.

    (University of Nottingham)

Abstract

This paper investigates empirically the link between international outsourcing and the skill structure of labour demand in the United Kingdom. It is the first detailed study of this issue for the UK. Outsourcing is calculated using import-use matrices of input-output tables for manufacturing industries for the period 1982 to 1996. Estimating a system of variable factor demands, our main results show that international outsourcing has had a strong negative impact on the demand for unskilled labour. Hence, international outsourcing is an important component in explanations of the changing skill structure of manufacturing industries in the United Kingdom.

Suggested Citation

  • Hijzen, Alexander & Görg, Holger & Hine, Robert C., 2004. "International Outsourcing and the Skill Structure of Labour Demand in the United Kingdom," IZA Discussion Papers 1249, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp1249
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    wages; skill-biased technological change; fragmentation; Outsourcing; trade;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F14 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Empirical Studies of Trade
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials

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