The British Labour Group in the European Parliament (Building the second front, 1979-92)

The book explores the contributions and activities, in core policy areas, of the fractious British Labour Group, consisting of Labour Party MEPs, 1979–1992. Following the first direct elections to the European Parliament in 1979, Labour MEPs sought to challenge, influence and shape the direction and nature of the European Community from within. Operating in a parliamentary arena where a great variety of viewpoints, arguments and approaches met, this book explores the underappreciated and overlooked contributions of Labour MEPs. As such, importantly, its sheds much-needed light on British involvement in a core institution at the European-level. The book focuses on six core policy areas, which allows for an analysis of change of time, as well as changing views, practices and policies during this crucial period in Labour Party and European integration history.