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

Even in Britain, the trade unions tell me that employment contracts have less protection than in the past.

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.

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.

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

This desire for equity must not lead to an excess of welfare, where nobody is responsible for anything.

My problem is how to find the best way of being useful.