The United Kingdom and EC Membership Evaluated

Britain's membership fo the EC is rarely off the political agenda as a contentious issue, whether in domestic politics or within the EC itself. The controversy has become particularly acute within the last year, centred primarily on concerns over British sovereignty. The change of leadership may have led to a more conciliatory governmental approach, but has not silenced the voices of opposition to closer ties with Europe. Within this context, there is a need for an authoritative, balanced appraisal of the actual changes which have been brought about by Britain's membership of the European Community. Academic scholars in economics, law and political science compare the community's policies with the national goals of the British government and assess gains and losses in every area of policy.