As the resignation letter which I wrote to the Prime Minister clearly implies, it was not the outcome I sought, but it is one that I accept without rancour, despite what might be described as the hard landing involved.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I think my resignation was the only way to avoid bloodshed.
Being prime minister is not a job to be performed with an eye for the exit.
A resignation is a grave act; never performed by a right minded man without forethought or with reserve.
I'm sure that was the right step, even though, formally speaking, it may seem disadvantageous for a president to resign. But, looking into what is happening today and what is going to happen in the future, I think history will show I made the right decision.
There was one man in the Labour government, Robin Cook, whom I had a very high regard for. He had the courage to speak out and to resign over Iraq. He was an admirable man. But resignation over a matter of principle is not a very fashionable thing in our society.
I did not resign from politics because of Bofors. I resigned because I do not know how to play petty politics. I did not know back then and I don't know now either.
I have no intentions of resigning.
I don't have any intention of resigning.
No, I did not offer to resign for a second.
That is why with enormous regret I have tendered my resignation to the prime minister today.