Six Days In September

Britain entered the European exchange rate mechanism in desperation, left in disgrace and prospered thereafter– presaging the 2016 vote to leave the European Union. Britain’s 1990 entry was accompanied by a secret Bank of England warning of future trouble. On leaving in 1992, Prime Minister John Major insisted on time-wasting consultation that led to exhaustion of Britain’s reserves. Helmut Schlesinger, Bundesbank president in 1992, says in the book he ‘regrets to this day’ how his remarks on currencies helped precipitate the run on the pound. Praise for Six Days in September ‘David Marsh, William Keegan and Richard Roberts have written a very balanced and detailed account of the events leading up to the 1992 ERM crisis. As a result of their diligent research they have unearthed many details, some which even I had forgotten. Endorsements: 'The book will be required reading for all those interested in this period.' Lord (Norman) Lamont, Chancellor of the Exchequer (1990-93) 'It's not an argument for Brexit, but rather it should encourage consideration of a new and pragmatic settlement for Europe, one which the UK could comfortably be part of.' Lord (Alistair) Darling, Chancellor of the Exchequer (2007-10) Press reviews: 'A story that has everything...; told with verve' Financial Times 'Lays bare the shallowness of the reasoning that took the country into the ERM' Evening Standard 'Offers lessons for our departure' The Sunday Times 'Describes the moment when politics replaced economics for the Tories' The Independent 'Has a direct parallel with Brexit' The Daily Mail 'A thorough new account of the dramatic episode' City A.M. 'Book of the week: A well-written account' MoneyWeek