Simon McDoanld was the British ambassador to Germany and later permanent under-secretary at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and head of Diplomatic Service. He is master of Christ’s College, Cambridge.
‘Leadership displays the virtues you might expect of a top diplomat: it is elegantly written, discreet and observant.’ Gideon Rachman, Financial Times; ‘An enjoyable read packed with insights from someone who was ‘‘on the spot’’ when the United Kingdom responded to significant international challenges.’ House Magazine; ‘An original, very well-written, and serious book which adds to the quality of public discussion.’ Anthony Seldon; ‘This is a book full of riches – a despatch from deep inside the British state about how it really operates and how it could be run better. In places, Simon McDonald wields his fluent pen like a blowtorch. His candour burns the page. Some of the most eminent in the land will rush to the index. Some will be right to tremble if they find their name.’ Peter Hennessy; ‘The author’s observations are widely applicable and strengthened by a strong understanding of history.’ The Edge, Malaysia;