The unions still have a job to do, representing their members' interests to governments and parliaments. And I think collective agreements still have a role, alongside markets and laws.

Therefore one should speak at the same time of national citizenship and wider European citizenship.

The driving force behind the liberal counter-offensive in Europe has been a reaction against irresponsibility.

My presidential victory, if it had happened, would have been artificial in relation to the Socialist party. It may be that on my deathbed, I will come to regret my decision, but for the moment, I live at peace with it.

Yes, the European model remains superior to that of America and Japan.

The European model is in danger if we obliterate the principle of personal responsibility.

I would not be opposed to devising a new system of pensions, in which one part was based on collective provision, but which also gave incentives for people to take out an additional, personal plan.