Introduction II

We are especially fortunate in having Mr Edward Heath to give the final paper in today’s Seminar. The views of any former Prime Minister on the theme of Economic Development would command our interest and respect, but Edward Heath has an expertise and authority which is far more specific and germane. For it is pre-eminendy as a leading member of the Independent Commission on Development Issues — the Brandt Commission — whose Report, published in 1980, so focused world attention on the North-South divide that he is to speak to us today. In July, the University took pride in conferring an honorary doctorate on Mr Heath: in two weeks’ time he will take part in the Congregation at which Herr Brandt is honoured in like fashion. There is, then, a particular apositeness in now asking Mr Heath to speak on the theme of ‘International Keynesianism: The Problem of the North-South Divide’.