Foreign Policy 1964-70 Flashcards
Possible exam question: “Wilson failed to achieve his foreign policy goals in the years 1964-70” Give 3 pieces of evidence
Failure - EEC and Europe
Success - Special Relationship
Failure - Decolonisation
How was the EEC part of foreign policy a failure for Wilson?
He caused divides in the party as the left were very sceptical of Europe but applied in 1966 despite this because it was economically promising. It was embarrassing as he thought his meeting with De Gaulle went really well in 1967 and he toured the other 5 EEC countries for support. But then his application was vetoed due to an unwillingness to give up the Special Relationship. Britain were seen as the ‘sick man of Europe’ and economically weak.
How could you defend Wilson’s failure in the EEC?
It may have been right to prioritise the special relationship as that was an important ally who kept Britain protected during the Cold War. Also the special relationship didn’t jeopardise British workers’ rights.
How did Wilson succeed in maintaining the special relationship?
They kept the Atlantic Alliance during the soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia in 1968. Also he had an good friendship with President Lyndon Johnson. They were vocally supportive of the US in the House of Commons during the Vietnam War.
How could it be argued Wilson weakened the Special Relationship?
He decided not to send troops to Vietnam due to left wing opposition like Michael Foot and violent protests like the one outside the US Embassy in 1968 so may not be viewed as highly as other allies like Australia who sent troops.
How did Wilson fail at decolonising (Withdrawal from East of Suez)?
He appeared weak when he disallowed independence for Southern Rhodesia because black people were being excluded. But in 1965 Rhodesia leader Ian Smith unilaterally declared independence and refused to negotiate with Wilson through civil oil sanctions as they had other trade partners. Wilson organised a meeting on the HMS Fearless in 196 which came to nothing so Britain were no longer respected as a world power.
How could it be argued Wilson didn’t fail at decolonisation?
He set a timetable in 1967 to decolonise Aden, The Middle East, Malaysia and Singapore. They were successful in all these countries and Wilson persevered despite US and host country approval showing his dedication to his goals.
