Britain's Turbulent Relationship with the European Economic Community: A Timeline of Triumphs and setbacks

Strategic Insights -

From the Suez Crisis of 1956 to the present day, Britain's relationship with the European Economic Community (EEC) has been marked by periods of close collaboration and deep divisions, often sparked by disagreements over Europe's future direction. This complex and multifaceted history is reflected in the numerous U-turns and concessions made by successive British governments.

Key Takeaways:

  • 1963: President Charles de Gaulle ( pictured) vetoes Britain's bid to join the European Economic Community (EEC), citing concerns over Britain's economic and cultural ties to Europe.
  • 1970: The British government under Edward Heath begins formal negotiations with the EEC for Britain's accession.
  • 1973: After President Georges Pompidou lifts the French veto, Britain finally joins the EEC.
  • 1975: The British referendum on EEC membership produces a two-thirds majority in favor of continued membership.
  • 1986: Britain signs the Single European Act, committing to economic integration and increased majority voting in the Council of Ministers.
  • 1990: With the reluctant consent of Margaret Thatcher, Britain joins the Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM), a precursor to a single European currency.
  • 1992: Britain signs the Maastricht Treaty, committing to European Union and securing concessions on the Social Chapter, a key aspect of European integration.
  • 1993: The UK Parliament ratifies the Maastricht Treaty.
  • 1997: The Labour Government agrees to sign up to the Social Chapter and signs the Amsterdam Treaty, which further commits the UK to EU integration.
  • 1997: Gordon Brown announces that Britain will not join the single currency at its launch, citing concerns over national sovereignty.

Statistics:

  • 7 years: The duration of Margaret Thatcher's veto on joining the forex market
  • 22 years: The time spent by the UK participating in the ERM
  • 1990: The year in which Britain joins the ERM with the reluctant consent of Margaret Thatcher
  • 1992: The year in which the UK is forced to leave the ERM on Black Wednesday
  • 1997: The year in which the UK agrees to sign up to the Social Chapter
  • 1997: The year in which the UK signs the Amsterdam Treaty

Sources:

- The Times (1963)

- Foreign and Commonwealth Office (1970)

- The Guardian (1975)

- The Economist (1986)

- BBC News (1990)

- The Telegraph (1993)

- UK Parliament (1993)

- The Guardian (1997)

- BBC News (1997)