The Bermuda Conference and the April 1957 Crisis in Jordan

Abstract

Following the decision to halt operations on the Suez Canal on 6 November, British politics had been in ferment. It was Anthony Eden’s misfortune at this point to be obliged, under doctor’s advice, to take a complete break from work. Accordingly, on 23 November, he flew out of London bound for Jamaica. On his return, although he evidently believed that he could resume his position as Prime Minister, his reception in the House of Commons showed that he certainly could not command majority support, even within his own party. Although some scholars argue that his continuing bad health was the explanation for his swift decision to resign on 9 January, it is difficult to believe that the weakness of his political position did not have a bearing on that decision.’