Chapter 6: The Balkans, Russia and Germany, 1912-1914
The collapse of the Turkish empire gave a new importance to the old Austro-Russian rivalry. Russia's need of the straits represented the weakest link in the Entente chain.
During the Balkan War, Britain worked closely with the Germans to prevent any European power from taking advantage of the Balkan debacle to the detriment of the peace of Europe. He welcomed German cooperation as the best means of preserving the peace. Grey also acted as a "useful and patient mediator between Russia and Austria." The French conceded this iniatiave to Grey.
Grey's involvement preserved the European peace, but created diplomatic trouble. The Russians were convinced (because of the British block) that the British were at most doubtful friends. The Germans were using the Balkan War to court London while flirting with Russia.
Russia's power was growing.
They began sneaking into the neutral zone in Central Asia. The Russians blocked Grey's suggested railroad route.
Nicolson, Summer 1914: "our relations with Russia are now approaching a point where we shall have to make up our minds as to whether we should become really intimate and permanent friends or else diverge into another path."
Russia could not act without the support of her partners and French action was reliant on British cooperation.
Even though Grey spoke to Germany about his potential neutrality, it was clear that he had already chosen the side of Britain.
Chapter 7: The Domestic Contest: Liberal Politics and Conservative Pressure
Grey enjoyed more freedom than his German counterpart. Only the PM had a real check on the Foreign minister's actions. The Foreign office did not have to reveal anything that they did not want to.
The makers of foreign policy stood above the media.
