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.

I cannot resign myself to the decline of Europe, and of France.

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

Contrary to what people say, my wife never turned me away from the presidency. She told me to reflect on it and do what I wanted.

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.

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

The problem with a purely collective system is not only that it requires economic growth, and the right sort of demographic trends, but that it prevents people thinking about their futures in a responsible way.