Contributor(s): Sir John Major | Discussing the topic, Britain in a changing world, former British Prime Minister and Leader of the Conservative Party, Sir John Major, delivers this year’s Maurice Fraser Annual Lecture.

John Major was appointed Prime Minister on November 28, 1990 and served in that position until May 1997.

As Prime Minister, Sir John focused his efforts upon securing peace in Northern Ireland and upholding Britain's position in the world community as a political, social and economic leader. He was Prime Minister throughout the first Gulf War and, at home, instigated long-term reforms in education, health and public services. On New Year's Day 1999, Her Late Majesty The Queen appointed Sir John a Companion of Honour in recognition of his initiation of the Northern Ireland Peace Process; and on St George's Day 2005, a Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter.