Arthur Henderson

On the contrary, the characteristic element of the present situation is that economic questions have finally and irrevocably invaded the domain of public life and politics. ”

Whatever we do or fail to do will influence the course of history. ”

Therefore, let us not despair, but instead, survey the position, consider carefully the action we must take, and then address ourselves to our common task in a mood of sober resolution and quiet confidence, without haste and without pause. ”

But to cut off relations with an aggressor may often invite retaliation by armed action, and this would, in its turn, make necessary some form of collective self-defence by the loyal members of the League. ”

It has become impossible to give up the enterprise of disarmament without abandoning the whole great adventure of building up a collective peace system. ”

It is because I believe that it is in the power of such nations to lead the world back into the paths of peace that I propose to devote myself to explaining what, in my opinion, can and should be done to banish the fear of war that hangs so heavily over the world. ”

The years of the economic depression have been years of political reaction, and that is why the economic crisis has generated a world peace crisis. ”

To solve the problem of organizing world peace we must establish world law and order. ”

The question is, what are we to do in order to consolidate peace on a universal and durable foundation, and what are the essential elements of such a peace? ”

He would see civilization in danger of perishing under the oppression of a gigantic paradox: he would see multitudes of people starving in the midst of plenty, and nations preparing for war although pledged to peace. ”