Britain at the Centre of European Co†operation (1948–2016)

This article will revisit the vision of a Britain based on two supposedly eternal features: the promotion of free†trade values and a reticence towards European integration. By examining the history of Britain's relationship with the organization of the European continent, it will demonstrate that since the creation of the first European institution in 1948, London has constantly exerted considerable influence on the organization of the European continent. In this regard, Brexit is just another step in a proactive British policy of influencing European co†operation. Most instances of isolationism were self†induced, not the result of any sinister Franco†German plot. In addition, this article will also demonstrate that the UK government has not consistently put forth a free†trade European policy. UK economic policy has traditionally been based on multiple legacies, including some protectionist tendencies.