Britain's Quest for a Role

A Diplomatic Memoir from Europe to the UN

British post-imperial decline has been much examined. In these memoirs, David Hannay, one of Britain's leading behind-the-scenes players in this process, provides fascinating frontline information and insights into Britain's 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 UK's entry into the European Community, as well as being closely involved in the Annan plan while he was the UK's 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 Britain's contribution to the European budget. His qualification to discuss Europe is unparalleled, made apparent by Margaret Thatcher's veto of his appointment as Permanent Under-Secretary at the Foreign Office and Head of the Diplomatic service as she thought him “too European”.

From the complex relations between Margaret Thatcher and her diplomatic establishment to Britain's 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. Hannay presents to readers the inner workings of key international institutions – the FCO, the EU and the UN – against the backdrop of major historical and political events, from the aftermath of the Suez crisis to 9/11 and beyond. An informed and balanced ringside view of diplomatic history over 50 years, this book will fascinate general readers and prove essential reading for specialists.