bidding

[cannonkuo]

The Prime Minister made clear her view that it was impossible to be neutral in the face of unprovoked aggression. In reviewing the bidding, she said the fleet was en route, an exclusion zone has been established, yet Britain hopes for a diplomatic solution. (Foreign Relations of the United States, 1981–1988, Volume XIII, Conflict in the South Atlantic, 1981–1984 - Office of the Historian)

What does bidding mean here?
Thank you very much.

 

[probus]

It's an odd usage indeed in this rather formal context. My best guess is that it's a reference to the card game called contract bridge, which begins with an "auction" in which players bid to see who will win the "contract" and therefore play the hand. Any player may at any time demand a review of the bidding. If my guess is right, Prime Minister Thatcher was calling for a review of the negotiations with Argentina to date.

 

[cannonkuo]

It's an odd usage indeed in this rather formal context. My best guess is that it's a reference to the card game called contract bridge, which begins with an "auction" in which players bid to see who will win the "contract" and therefore play the hand. Any player may at any time demand a review of the bidding. If my guess is right, Prime Minister Thatcher was calling for a review of the negotiations with Argentina to date.

Can I interpret it as "what can the UK do" to deal with the Argentine invasion of the Falklands?
Thank you.

 

[probus]

No. The actions that Prime Minister Thatcher had decided the UK should take about the Falklands were already in progress, as the passage goes on to say immediately after the phrase "reviewing the bidding."

 

[Tdol]

I am not a bridge player, but I think the text suggests she was willing to pull them back if the armed forces pulled out- she was willing to fight, but also willing to negotiate, but was aware that the chances were low- open to counter-offers, but willing to fight.