Site disciplinaire Histoire-Géographie

Tim Legge Lycée Jammot Aubusson

Jean Philippe Raud Dugal Lycée Edmond Perrier Tulle

Listen to the speech: (one time or twice)

1° Etape: Compréhension globale

1. - Who is the speaker ?
   
2. - What’s the main idea?
   
3. - What is the purpose?
   
4. - Who is it intended for?
   
   
   

2° étape: Compréhension détaillée

1- What is his vision of the future of Europe?

Union of Nations / (not) federal superstate

2- According to Blair, what has been the British attitude in Europe so far? / what part has Britain played so far?

Tragedy / failed (twice)

Give this text (transcript of the audio file)

Tony Blair’s speech to the European Research Institute Friday November 23, 2001

The purpose of this speech is to argue: that Britain’s future is inextricably linked with Europe; that to get the best out of it, we must make the most of our strength and influence within it; and that to do so, we must be whole-hearted, not half-hearted, partners in Europe.

We have a vision for Europe – as a union of nations working more closely together, not a federal superstate submerging national identity. It is the right vision for Europe. Let us have the confidence to go out and win support for it.

The tragedy for British politics – for Britain – has been that politicians of both parties have consistently failed, not just in the 1950s but on up to the present day, to appreciate the emerging reality of European integration. And in doing so, they have failed Britain’s interests.[...] We said that it [common market] wouldn’t happen. Then we said it wouldn’t work. Then we said we didn’t need it. But it did happen. And Britain was left behind. We were left behind because it succeeded. The six founder members had created something which worked. [...]

The history of our engagement with Europe is one of opportunities missed in the name of illusions – and Britain suffering as a result. [...]

If this dismal history teaches us one clear lesson, it is this: the EU has succeeded and will succeed.

Does this mean that we walk untroubled and uncritical into whatever Europe offers? Of course not: it is precisely because we both need Europe, and Europe needs reform and change, that Britain’s participation in Europe is so essential. To proclaim Europe’s success and advocate our part in it, is not to deny Europe’s requirement for change, but to give ourselves the opportunity to help shape it.

The argument is simple. We are part of Europe. It affects us directly and deeply. Therefore we should exercise leadership in order to change Europe in the direction we want.

Extract from The Guardian Guardian Unlimited © Guardian Newspapers Limited 2001

3° étape: le texte. Ecrit

Give a title to each paragraph.

Blair’s vision for europe

Britain’s failure

The success of the EU

Britain as a leader in Europe

4° Analyse: Oral

1- Blair’s vision for europe is not that of a federal superstate but a union of nations. Could you explain the meaning of this extract?

Reprendre

Union of nations: Nations linked together mainly for trade. They keep their political sovereignity: foreign affairs, defense policy, education

Federal superstate: complete integration of all the main policies. A first step has been reached with the Euro.

2- What should be Britain’s influence on Europe according to Blair?

CCL°:

Is Blair eurosceptic or pro european?

Did you expect T. Blair’s pro-european attitude?

What are the main stereotypes on Britain concerning its attitude in Europe?

[15 lines :

Write an article on the changes of Britain’s attitude towards Europe. ]

Distribuer la 2° partie du speech.

Homework :According to Blair why is it so important for Britain to play a major part in the construction of Europe ?