The 7YW started because Austria wanted Silesia back. Britain and France merely used is as (another) excuse to go at each other's throats. Because Austria allied itself with France against Prussia Britain, in a huff, immediately allied itself with Prussia. Both the War of Austrian Succession AND the 7 Years' War revolved around the rise of Prussia and the eclipsing of Austria.
British foreign policy remained pretty constant throughout the 18th century - beat the French - and they joined whatever side the French weren't on. In many ways it could rightly be called the Second Hundred Year's War.
very interesting viewpoint. By the way, after Louis XIV's death, his successor did much to help the British.