Britain`s Quest for a Role, Hannay David

British post-imperial decline has been much examined. In these memoirs, David Hannay, one of Britains leading behind-the-scenes players in this process, provides fascinating frontline information and insights into Britains complex relations with Washington and Europe. From his early career in the Middle East to his role as a top diplomat, Hannay presents a detailed and authoritative narrative of British foreign policy in the second half of the 20th Century. A key player in European policy-making, he was directly involved in bringing about the UKs entry into the European Community, as well as being closely involved in the Annan plan while he was the UKs Special Representative in Cyprus. Hannay illuminates vital themes in the early relationship between Britain and the EU that are increasingly relevant today: British membership, EU enlargement and Britains contribution to the European budget. From the complex relations between Margaret Thatcher and her diplomatic establishment to Britains decisions leading up to the 1970s oil supply crisis, Hannay analyses the causes and consequences of major British foreign policy decisions over the past 50 years.
An informed and balanced ringside view of diplomatic history over 50 years, this book will fascinate general readers and prove essential reading for specialists.