PLAYING BRITANNIA: HOW I BECAME HER EXCELLENCY
Playing Britannia, Juliet Campbell’s lively memoir, based on her diaries and letters written at the time, is rich with observation, analysis and colourful, often comic, detail. From dealing with a troubled Mrs. Thatcher, worried about not wearing a hat, to advising Ministers prior to Cabinet discussions or briefing journalists on major issues of international concern, it is an engrossing insight into diplomatic life as Britain adapted to the new world order of the post-war era. Along the way she was besieged in a medieval castle with the Queen, looped the loop in a jet, and met top Chinese generals in the Great Hall of the People. A picture emerges of a life of hard work leavened with a great deal of fun, and at its heart, a woman focussed not only on her career, but on friends, family and the people among whom she found herself.
Juliet’s European posts coincided with some of the milestones in Britain’s stormy relationship with the EEC and she also served in Bangkok, Vientiane and Jakarta. Juliet was one of the first women to make a career in the Diplomatic Service and is the first of those who became an Ambassador to publish a book about her experiences. On leaving the Diplomatic Service she spent 7 years in Cambridge as Mistress of Girton.
“This fascinating memoir is required reading for anyone who wants to understand how diplomats really operate.”
Sir Martin Donnelly, former Permanent Secretary of the Business and Trade Departments.
Juliet Campbell CMG joined the British Diplomatic Service in 1957, when only a handful of women served on its 1100 staff. Specialising in European Affairs for much of her career, both in London and abroad, Juliet also served in
Thailand, Laos and Indonesia. She was British Ambassador to Luxembourg from 1988 to 1991. Appointed CMG in
1988, Juliet Campbell left the Diplomatic Service in 1991. She became Mistress of Girton College, Cambridge in 1992 and was a member of the University’s governing Council, before retiring in 1998.
“… an inspiration for those with ambition to make a difference in the world. …
I cannot recommend this stimulating book too highly.”
Dame Karen Pierce DCMG, British Ambassador to the United States.
“From pioneering woman diplomat to leading the pioneering Oxbridge college for women, Juliet Campbell’s life is full of good stories.”
Baroness Hale of Richmond, former President of the Supreme Court.
Harry Bucknall has written variously for, amongst others, The Sunday Telegraph, The Spectator, Sunday Times Travel Magazine, The Scotsman, Irish Independent, Country Life, The Lady, The Guards Magazine and Dorset Life.
His love of travel and history blossomed in early childhood exploring the creeks, islands and inlets of Poole harbour in a mirror dinghy. After Harrow, he enlisted in The Blues & Royals and, following Sandhurst, served for twelve years as a regular officer in the Coldstream Guards. On leaving the Army, Harry, 58, worked in the oil and mining industry and as a consultant in the Middle East. He has also produced theatre on the London Fringe, sat on the Olivier Awards Panel and acted as reviewer for Arts Council, London and several West End publications.
“Harry’s new book, A Road For All Seasons, chronicling his 6,500 mile journey through Britain in 2017 will be published by Constable next March.”
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