Routledge - The Rise and Fall of a National Strategy Vol 1

Explore the complex history of British foreign policy through this detailed analysis of the UK and the European Community. Part of the Government Official History Series, this volume examines the official British thinking that led the nation to remain separate from European economic collaboration following 1945. Readers will gain a clear understanding of the period leading to the establishment of the ECSC and the EEC in the 1950s, as well as the significant shift in policy that occurred in 1961. The text provides a thorough look at how Whitehall organized itself for negotiations with the Communities and identifies the core challenges faced during this era. This book is an essential resource for those studying 20th-century European history, specifically regarding the tensions between British interests and European integration. It covers vital topics including the Commonwealth, British agriculture, sovereignty, the financial implications of membership, and the future of EFTA. It offers a deep look into the strategic decisions that shaped the UK's relationship with Europe.