MEN OF RESPONSIBILITY

This voluminous memoir begins as a pleasantly written autobiography and ends in a searching analysis of the vital problems of unity, cooperation and defense facing the ""men of responsibility"" in the Atlantic community. Though Stikker's narrative conveys the impression of an almost effortless drift toward higher positions, the reader can discern an incisive mind and strong determination to take risks and make decisions. After carefree university years Stikker became in succession a bank clerk, bank director, brewer and a leading Dutch businessman actively participating as such in the wartime resistance efforts. Afterwards he was also I chairman of OEC, participated in EPU, GATT, Schuman Plan, Council of Europe and others. From 1952-58 he was Dutch ambassador in London, doubling his office with representation in several international organizations. From 1958 ouward he was Dutch representative in NATO and finally NATO Secretary General, 1961 to 1964. The book is valuable because of the close, inside portrayals of the personalities and of the manifold events in whose shaping Stikker participated, such as the Indonesian crisis, NATO planning and strategy, the German problem, European integration, the Suez Crisis, etc. Of special value are his discussions of Dutch internal party politics and constitutional practices. He also deals at some length on the reasoning behind policies he adopted or advocated. The ""men of responsibility"" are ably represented here.