Private Secretaries to the Prime Minister: Foreign Affairs from Churchill to Thatcher, ed. with Warren Dockter 

The importance of the Prime Minister in British foreign policy decision-making has long been accepted by historians. However, whilst much attention has been given to high level contacts between leaders and to the roles played by the Premiers themselves, much less is known about the people advising and influencing them. In providing day-to-day assistance to the Prime Minister, the Private Secretary could wield significant influence in policy outcomes. This book examines the activities of those who advised Prime Ministers from Winston Churchill (1951-55) to Margaret Thatcher during her first administration (1979-83). Each individual chapter considers both British foreign policy and assess the influence of the specific advisers. For each office holder, particular attention is paid to a number of key themes. Firstly, their relations with the Prime Minister is considered.

A strong personal relationship of trust and respect could lead to an official wielding much greater influence. This could be especially relevant when an adviser served under two different leaders, often from different political parties. It also helps shed light on the conduct of foreign policy by each Premier. Secondly, the attitudes towards the adviser from the Foreign Office are examined. The FO traditionally enjoyed great autonomy in the making of British foreign policy and was sensitive to encroachments by Downing Street. Finally, each chapter explores the role of the adviser in the key foreign policy events and discussions of the day. Covering a fascinating thirty-year period in post-war British political history, this collection both broadens our understanding of the subject, and underlines the different ways influence could be brought to bear on government policy.

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