To diversify support for its economic reforms, in the mid1980s Hungary began to pursue relations with Britain. In 1984 Britain accounted for 4.3 percent of Hungary's exports to the West and 5.2 percent of its imports from the West. In the mid1980s , Hungary was able to increase its trade with Britain owing to Britain's recovery from its economic recession, the flexible price policy of Hungarian economic enterprises, and a more favorable international climate.

Kadar paid an official visit to Britain in the fall of 1985. According to British prime minister Margaret Thatcher, the two sides shared common ideas "with regard to peace, prosperity, and security." The two governments admitted that differences persisted, although they agreed to play a "useful role" in creating good relations between the Warsaw Pact and NATO.

The good political climate facilitated the expansion of cultural relations. Hungary and Britain carried out bilateral cultural and scientific exchanges within the context of an agreement that was renewed every two years. In 1985 Glasgow held a five-week festival of Hungarian culture. In addition, the British firm Pergamon Press published an English translation of Kadar's speeches and articles.

Data as of September 1989