THE SYSTEM ADOPTED IN FRANCE 77

because, as we should express it, they are in areserved occupation;

(b) the whole of the earnings both of these andof all other workers in respect of their workbetween 40 and 45 hours a week, and one thirdof their earnings in respect of hours worked above45 a week. (In the numerous cases where the hoursof work are now 50 a week or more, this worksout at almost another 15 per cent).

Against this there are rigorous measures tomaintain the cost of living at the pre-war level,but, so far, rationing has been avoided. I haveno particulars how this is working out in practiceor whether it is involving the French Treasuryin expensive subsidies in the case of imported oragricultural goods.

This account is imperfect and perhaps inaccurateas an up-to-date statement. I hope that its pub-lication may stimulate a Frenchman into givingus a fuller account of the French home frontthan I have found readily available at present.

In a talk to the French nation over the wirelessat the end of January, 1940, M. Daladier com-mended these stern measures to the civilianpopulation and urged their willing acceptance ofthem in the following terms:—

"When they left for the frontier, our sonsaccepted a total transformation of their lives.Those who have stayed behind and do not haveto put up with the same sufferings and dangersmust also agree to transform their lives. Theymust sacrifice their personal interests, renouncecertain commodities. Above all, they must con-