This text systematically traces the development of the British Conservative government's policy to the European Exchange Rate Mechanism from 1979 to 1994. The book provides information and insight into the development of ERM policy, which led to the downfall and discredit of the Conservative leadership. Revealing dramatic episodes in the progress of the policy, including a full account of the deterioration in the relationship between Margaret Thatcher and Nigel Lawson, the author shows how the Thatcher government was torn apart, and the credibility of the Major government undermined.

First published in 1996. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

This is a witty and authoritative account of this explosive mix between politics and economics and gives a rare insight into how economic policy is made in modern Britain and into the continuing political struggle over Britain's place in Europe.

The Conservative Party has been a dominant force in postwar British politics. This book explores the 50 years from Winston Churchill's defeat in 1945 to the long tenure of Margaret Thatcher, then John Major. Themes and events of the period are brought vividly to life through the views and reactions of those involved.

For over a century the Conservative Party has been identified as the patriotic party defending the nation state and British identity. Thatcherism sought to rework the Conservative politics of nationhood in the light of changed circumstances, but the Thatcher and Major Governments faced significant problems managing the Union, European integration and a multicultural society. Philip Lynch examines the key developments and statecraft problems in the conservative politics of nationhood during the Thatcher and Major period.

How has the New Right, globalization and Europeanization changed the nature of the British state?