This text is a guide to the case for Europe. It marshals the most persuasive arguments in favour of closer European integration and a full and whole-hearted British participation in the European Union. It considers the whole case, presenting a synthesis of political, cultural and social ideas. It includes the historic political arguments of the debate from a range of illustrious figures including Winston Churchill, Jean Monnet, Roy Jenkins, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Tony Blair. However, the book moves beyond politics, with writers such as Milan Kundera and David Puttnam discussing the impact of Europe on our everyday lives: from our cities and identities to football and film.

Author Biography

DICK LEONARD was Labour MP for Romford 1970-74, and was one of sixty-nine Labour MPs who voted against the party whip in favour of British membership of the European Community in 1971. A political writer and journalist he has worked in Brussels since 1980, initially for The Economist, as Assistant Editor, and subsequently for The Observer. He is author or co-author of many books including Elections in Britain Today, and Crosland and New Labour. MARK LEONARD is Director of The Foreign Policy Centre, an independent think-tank launched by the British Prime Minister Tony Blair (Patron) and the former Foreign Secretary Robin Cook (President). Described by the BBC as 'one of the most influential figures behind British foreign policy', he invented the idea of 'Rebranding Britain', and is a member of Panel 2000, the taskforce that advises the British Foreign Secretary on promoting Britain abroad.