Drawing on recently declassified government files, private papers and interviews, this book argues that through a combination of preventative diplomacy and robust defence planning, the Labour government of 1974-79 succeeded in maintaining peace, avoiding the fate of its Tory successors.

Acknowledgements Abbreviations Maps Introduction 1. 'Leave This Poisoned Chalice Alone' 2. The Lowest Common Multiple 3. A Sensational Hostage 4. Islands Surrounded by Advice 5. The Mixed Approach 6. Absentee Landlords 7. Defence of the Realm 8. 'No Talks, Just Football' Conclusion Notes Bibliography Index