Time and Chance

James Callaghan's career in politics is unique: no other British politician has held the four great posts of Chancellor of the Exchequer, Home Secretary, Foreign Secretary and Prime Minister. In his autobiography, he writes openly of the issues and major crises of the time, and conveys vividly what it was like to be in the forefront of politics in a modern democracy beset by financial social and political problems. Born in poverty, Callaghan entered politics from wartime service in the Royal Navy, and office quickly followed. He was soon to hold important posts, with the responsibility of tackling major issues of his time, under Labour governments beset by crises unknown to New Labour. He describes conflicts at home and abroad; with the trade unions trying to maintain an income policy; the complex negotiations over Europe; and the financial pressures besetting the country.