Harold Macmillan and the EEC

Why did Macmillan apply to the EEC?

• He was pro-European and wanted a more constructive role with Europe.
• Believed Britain's days as a great power were over after the Suez Crisis.
• Thought joining the EEC was inevitable - Britain was missing out. 
• EFTA had failed as an alternative.
• British economic growth was slowing, and the Commonwealth was weak. Britain traded more with Europe - exports to the EEC rose by 29% in 1954-1960.
• After the Winds of Change Speech in 1960 the empire and Commonwealth were no longer seen as vital.
• Pressure from the US to join the EEC.
• Joining the EEC would retain British influence…