Since 1945 there have been nine Prime Ministers of Britain. This book outlines and analyzes the way the office has developed in the past 45 years. It considers the social backgrounds, image, relations with cabinets, role in policy making, and power of the men and woman who have occupied this office.

James Barber is a professor and member of the Centre of International Studies at Cambridge University and a Fellow of the South African Institute of International Affairs. Previously he was Master of Hatfield College and Professor of Politics at Durham University. He has published extensively on Southern African affairs including Rhodesia: The Road to Rebellion; South Africa's Foreign Policy: 1945-1970; The Uneasy Relationship: Britain and South Africa; and South Africa's Foreign Policy: The Search for Status and Security. He has also published on British politics including The Prime Minister since 1945.