"Since December 1920 the best minds in British politics have attempted to push Northern Ireland off the domestic political agenda by promoting devolution and a Council of Ireland with cross-border authority. Every effort has failed. Instead, Northern Ireland has emerged again as the British Government's most pressing problem, commanding more rather than less attention as time has passed." "Why should this be? In this collection of essays, scholars from a range of disciplines show how Northern Ireland continued to play a role in British politics after 1921. Looking at themes such as its strategic importance, its role in Europe, the 'Troubles' and media coverage, they demonstrate that the region will continue to exercise the best minds and suggest that there is much to be learned by studying British responses to the Northern Ireland 'question'. As such, this study provides a valuable historical context in which to view current and developing policy."--BOOK JACKET.