Continental Drift Tales from Europe’s Longest-Serving MEP
From the hopeful beginnings of Britain’s entry into the European project to the bitterness of Brexit, Continental Drift is a vivid, personal account of a political life spent at the heart of the European Parliament.
As Europe’s longest-serving MEP, Bill Newton-Dunn offers a front-row view of the shifting tides in Britain’s often uneasy relationship with its continental neighbours. Spanning the four decades from 1979 to 2020, this lively memoir chronicles the currents of Euroscepticism, internal wranglings of UK delegations and the complex dance between Westminster and Brussels.
But Continental Drift is more than political history: it is also rich with behind-the-scenes stories, sharp observations and colourful pen portraits of the characters who shaped Europe, from British premiers and fiery backbenchers to European visionaries and bureaucratic bruisers, not to mention impassioned Communists and rumoured Mafiosi. With dry wit and unsparing honesty, Newton-Dunn brings to life the dramas, debates and diplomatic showdowns that marked a turbulent era.
Candid, compelling and frequently funny, Continental Drift is a timely reflection on Britain’s place in Europe – and what was lost when the flag came down.
Reviews
“Bill Newton Dunn almost certainly has more experience of the European Parliament than any other British politician. His book is an intelligent and thoughtful account of our country’s relationship with the rest of Europe.”
Chris Patten, chairman of the Conservative Party 1990–92 and European Commissioner 1999–2004
“No one knows the inner workings of the EU as well as veteran MEP Bill Newton Dunn. This is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand an institution of which Britain is sadly no longer part but which continues to exert great influence over the continent we inhabit.”
Nick Clegg, Deputy Prime Minister 2010–15
“Bill was always a good friend and political ally in the European cause.”
Kenneth Clarke, Chancellor of the Exchequer 1993–97
“No one knows better the politics of Britain’s negotiations with Europe. Truly an insider’s account.”
Norman Fowler, chairman of the Conservative Party 1992–94
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- Hardback, 400 pages
- ISBN: 9781837360383
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20 January 2026
Available to pre-order - £25.00
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- ISBN: 9781837360475
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20 January 2026
Available to pre-order - £19.99