Uneasy allies. British-German relations and European integration since 1945

Book abstract:

In the post-war era, fundamental differences in values and policies are found in British-German relations. For various reasons, historical, political and economic, the two nations have retained very different identities and attitudes towards each other and towards the European continent and European integration. However, the relationship holds great significance for both countries, and for Europe as a whole, in terms of the nature of their partnership and their roles within Europe.

This book focuses on the influence of European integration on the policies of Britain and Germany towards each other. In particular, it examines the post-1990 relationship and the political, security related, economic, financial and social aspects of the dynamic of British-German relations in an ever more interdependent world. The influence of the United States and France on both countries is also considered in detail. The themes of German unification and its consequences, the introduction of the euro, the strengthening of the role of the European Parliament and the prospect of the eventual realisation of a Common European Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) are identified as of particular importance for British-German relations at the start of the twenty-first century. Other aspects addressed in the book are the consequences of devolution in Britain, European monetary union, harmonisation of industrial and financial standards, eastern enlargement, the role of inter-governmental conferences and the role of the media.

The argument is maintained that throughout the latter half of the twentieth century, Britain and Germany can be characterised as 'uneasy allies'. It is only since the late 1990s that they appear to have become genuine partners in the context of European integration.