ATTITUDE TO POST-WAR EUROPE

• The changing circumstances of 1945 to 1946 brought a new vision to post-war Europe. It was not clear that the US would continue involvement in Europe or that the relationship between Britain and the US was as strong. The hopes that Stalin might stick to an agreement made at Yalta for free elections in EU were fading as the Soviets hold on occupied territories strengthened with the votes for the communists in Italy and France were a cause of concern.
• After his defeat in the election of July 1945, WSC had time to reflect on Europe and made a major speech in Zurich in Sept 1946 which added to his reputation as a major figure in the European movement. His name had been used by supporters of greater European unity as he supported a United States of Europe believing that Europe was central to the defence of the Empire.