Off-Whitehall is about the politics and economics of Europe and the two men who, separately or together, will decide Britain's fate in Europe. The relationship between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown is unique in British politics and this book describes it from close quarters. The author has seen both men in action, advising the Prime Minister for over six years in Downing Street. Derek Scott controversially exposes some of the tensions between the two neighbours both in Downing Street and in Whitehall and critically explores Tony Blair's broader vision for Britain within the European Union. Advance news of the book's publication has already generated intense media coverage and has caused alarm in the corridors of power. Derek Scott's book will have a major impact on how the Blair government is viewed by commentators, historians and the public at large. This is the book that the Cabinet office has sought to ban.

Derek Scott was economic advisor to Tony Blair in Downing Street between May 1997 and December 2003, having also worked with him since 1994 when Blair became Leader of the Opposition.