Recording

Laval radio broadcast to French people upon his appointment as Prime Minister, 4/1942

Confidence in his own desire and ability to save France. Deterioration in French situation since 1936 due to "lack of understanding" shown by some ministers, the "passionate partiality" of others and "betrayal" by a third group. Working under Petain, Laval and his government will do everything to save France. Difficulty of the situation and necessity of a sustained effort on the part of every individual. Laval's knowledge of the "peasant soul" and his reliance on the people of France. His government will always try to reinforce France's liberty without endangering the country, but listeners must understand that at the present time there are certain necessary constraints on personal freedom. Present lack of work, but hope of a "real revolution" through the war. Danger of Bolshevism. In the new Socialist Europe the worker will be protected and honoured, spiritual values will flourish. Need for discipline and order. Laval's past and present assertion that cooperation with Germany necessary for European peace. Peace made in 1940 by Pe_atain and Laval sacrificed neither French interests nor French honour. Germany did not want to humiliate France. If the Soviets defeated Germany, they would also march into France and, with English agreement, would impose a government which would "mechanise" the worker and annihilate "elites". Need for "politics of de_atente" with Germany. English do not like Laval because of his independence. Any foreign propaganda is untrue. There is no other way for France, if she is to have a safe future. France will not abandon her colonies. France's former ally, England, destroyed the French Navy, murdered French sailors and is now bombing France. Final appeal to French people to support his effort. Marseillaise.