Harold Wilson's Efforts at a Negotiated Settlement of the Vietnam War, 1965-67

Abstract

This article aims to provide an account of British Prime Minister Harold Wilson’s diplomatic attempts to settle the Vietnam War. There are some previous studies discussing his initiatives in 1965, but little research focussing on his continuous trials in the following years. Starting with an analysis of Wilson’s concept of an Anglo-American ‘division of function’ in Vietnam, this article then examines Anglo-Soviet summit meetings in 1966-67 and investigates the Wilson- Johnson confrontation over America’s secret efforts at a dialogue with the Hanoi regime. In conclusion, it will consider the factors contributing to the ultimate failure to produce significant results of Wilson’s peace-making efforts