Study Source G. SOURCE G The talks with Laval had taken place in an atmosphere of threatened war in which all the member states appeared to be opposed to military action. It was a moment when Anglo-French co-operation was essential if there was to be no breach at Geneva. Our proposals were the only basis upon which it was even remotely likely that we could start a peace discussion with Italy. They were certainly the minimum upon which the French were prepared to proceed. I felt dangers of the continuance of war were so serious it was worth making an attempt. We alone have taken military precautions. There is a British fleet in the Mediterranean; there are British reinforcements in Egypt and Malta. Not a ship, not a man has been moved by any other member state. If every member state will by action prove that it is determined to take its full part in resistance to an aggressive action, then it will be possible to have peace. Remember, the aggressor has his forces mobilised and is ready to strike. That makes it necessary that all member states make themselves ready now. I say this because I believe that unless these facts are faced, either the League will break up, or a most unsatisfactory peace will result from the conflict that is now taking place. From Hoare's resignation speech to the British Parliament on 19 December 1935.