The wind of change is blowing through this [African] continent, and whether we like it or not, this growth of national consciousness is a political fact. We must all accept it as a fact, and our national policies must take account of it. Discussion Points: 1. How significant was this speech in terms of British Foreign policy? 2. Were the British realistic in their foreign policy aims between 1951 and 1964?

Britain and the World LO: to assess the motives for Britain's foreign policy between 1951 and 1964.

'The foreign policy failures of British governments in the years 1951 to 1964 were due to a lack of realism about Britain's post- war world'. Assess the validity of this view. (45marks)

Retreat from Empire  Lack of realism – imperial illusions meant no decolonisation in Africa until 1960, Suez Crisis, thought that nationalist groups could be contained leading to rise in defence spending – assumed repressions could be dealt with by force.  Not due to lack of realism: actions of Nasser, opinion in Britain had not yet adjusted, unexpected rise of nationalist groups in Malaya and Kenya (experienced by all colonial powers – not just GB), decolonisation would have to be a slow and gradual process, Wind of Change showed that despite failures Britain was beginning to adjust.

Suez Crisis, 1956  lack of realism – thought that Britain could still act as an imperial power, ignored economic implications, rise of diplomacy which Britain needed to respect, Eden still acting like a colonial leader, thought that it could exclude America.  not due to lack of realism: actions of Nasser, opinion in Britain had not yet adjusted, unexpected and so Britain had to act, role of America.

Europe and the EEC/EFTA  Lack of realism – did not try to join until 1961 after Suez and discontent with US (still thought it was a superpower), tried to create EFTA to rival EEC, did not see short term nature of Commonwealth benefits and ignored West German economic revival, thought it could hold influence in all three spheres, lack of realism of Churchill, Eden and Attlee.  Not due to a lack of realism – could not abandon Commonwealth and EEC demanded certain restrictions, role of De Gaulle blocking applications, anti-European sentiment of Britain.

America and the Special Relationship  Lack of realism – thought it was an equal partner in the relationship, money spent on building a nuclear deterrent, involvement in the Cold War.  Not due to lack of realism – economic reliance on US, isolation from Europe/EEC due to rejected applications, pressure from America to join EEC.

Not a complete failure! → Winds of Change led to a positive series of decolonised countries compared to other countries → Joined NATO and UN → Test Ban Treaty 1963

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'The foreign policy failures of British governments in the years 1951 to 1964 were due to a lack of realism about Britain's post- war world'. Assess the validity of this view. Discuss your conclusion. Was it a complete failure? Was this due to a lack of realism or other factors?