Heath's ambitions with the EEC

Question 1

What was Edward Heath’s general stance on European integration?

Answer 1

Heath was a convinced European who strongly supported integration with Europe.

Question 2

What was the topic of Heath’s maiden speech in the House of Commons?

Answer 2

Proposals for the future of coal and steel industries in France and Germany.

Question 3

What did Heath’s maiden speech eventually contribute to?

Answer 3

It led to a set of industry agreements between European countries.

Question 4

What role did Heath play in relation to the EEC starting in 1961?

Answer 4

He was Macmillan’s chief negotiator in the UK’s attempt to join the EEC.

Question 5

How did Heath approach the EEC issue during the 1970 General Election?

Answer 5

He neutralized controversy by promising not to take Britain into the EEC without the ‘full-hearted consent’ of Parliament and the people.

Question 6

Why was joining the EEC potentially disadvantageous for the UK at the time?

Answer 6

The UK’s coal and steel industries were larger than those of Germany and France combined, meaning the UK had more to lose.