ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the international crisis, notably the unexpected reconciliation of Charles VI and Philip V in 1725, and the subsequent division of Europe into two blocs, as war appeared increasingly imminent. These developments were highly significant and will receive attention as before, it is first necessary to explain political changes within Britain, as these changes helped to set the context for the response to international developments and to drive the interaction. The public debate in Britain over foreign policy was given added bite because differences in the ministerial Whig group led to a revival of opposition activity. In practice, most of the ministerial changes were accomplished without political strife and helped lead to a notable ease of ministerial relations and Cabinet business that played a role in the political response to the developing international crisis. In 1726, the ministry established a system for the surveillance of the provincial press, formalizing existing ad hoc practicalities.
