Since Britain joined the European Community in 1973, its relationship with its EC partners has been the subject of heated debate. Bringing together contributions from the eight men who have held the post of British Permanent Representative to the EC/EU, this book provides a unique and authoritative insight into the way this relationship has developed. Charged with representing Britain in negotiations in the Council of Ministers, and with acting as a conduit for information both from London and from Brussels, these men have enjoyed a privileged view of the reality of Britain's relationship with its EU partners. They now present a fascinating insight into the changing nature not only of Britain and the British debate about European integration, but also of an ever larger and more complicated EU.