Originally published in 1969, the studies in tis volume deal with the proposal for a multilateral free trade association initiated by North Atlantic countries in the 1960s. Written at a time of protectionism in the USA, policy problems in the EEC and debates over Britain's role within it, as well as discussions about tariff preferences mean that many of the themes in this volume remain as pertinent today as when the book was first published. As editor of the volume, Harry G. Johnson drew together the threads of a global concept that was commanding increasing attention around the world.