Chamberlain, Germany and Japan, 1933-4: Redefining British Strategy in an Era of Imperial Decline (Studies in Military and Strategic History)

This book examines the role of Chamberlain and the National Government in responding to the strategic problems created by the emergence of a two-front danger from Germany and Japan. It focuses on the first defence requirements enquiry of 1933-4, when rearmament foundations were laid and foreign policy redefined. It explores the inter-relationship between the different departments of state, and between individuals, in the formulation of policy at a time of crisis, and sheds light on the debate about appeasement. This Book Takes A Fresh Look At The Record Of Chamberlain And The National Government During 1933-4, When The First Defence Requirements Enquiry Occurred Against The Background Of An Emerging Two-front Danger From Germany And Japan. It Explores The Interaction Between Different Departments Of State And Individuals In The Formulation Of Strategic Policy, Demonstrating How, Largely Under Chamberlain's Influence, Britain's Priorities Were Redefined In Favour Of Air Defence At Home Rather Than Military Intervention In Europe Or Naval Defence Of The Empire In The Far East. It Portrays Graphically The Dilemmas Facing Britain In An Era When Its Resources Were Outstripped By Risks And Commitments, Interlinking This With The Debate About Appeasement. It Also Explores The Complications Caused By Relations With The Isolationist Usa And Offers Insights Into The Varied Spectrum Of Opinion Towards That Country Within The British Government. 1. The Danger From Germany And Japan -- 2. Confronting The Two-front Menace -- 3. The Ultimate Potential Enemy -- 4. Disarmament, Security And Defence Requirements -- 5. The Practical Politics Of The Far East -- 6. Cutting The Coat According To The Cloth -- 7. Perspectives -- 8. Conclusion -- Appendix I: Fo Memorandum On The Foreign Policy Of His Majesty's Government In The United Kingdom -- Appendix Ii: Annual Review For 1933 By The Chiefs Of Staff -- Appendix Iii: First Report Of The Drc -- Appendix Iv: Memorandum Respecting Anglo-japanese Relations And The Question Of Naval Parity -- Appendix V: Minute By Sir R. Vansittart -- Appendix Vi: Note By The Chancellor Of The Exchequer On The Report Of The Drc -- Appendix Vii: Interim Report By Ministerial Committee Dealing With Air Defence -- Appendix Viii: Report By Ministerial Committee On Defence Requirements -- Chronology Of Main Events, 1931-4. Peter Bell. In Association With King's College London. Includes Bibliographical References (p. 228-236) And Index.