The Transcript of Neville Chamberlain's Declaration of war

This document is the script of Neville Chamberlain's broadcast to the nation on 3 September 1939, stating that Britain had declared war on Germany. It was broadcast on BBC radio from Downing Street at 11.15am, shortly after Germany failed to agree to withdraw its troops from Poland. In his speech, Chamberlain reiterates his attempts to gain a peaceful solution and counters Hitler's claims that Poland had rejected a settlement. Finally, he offers encouragement to the British people in defending their country for a just cause. Listen to the recording of this speech Britain Declares War on Germany.

Neville Chamberlain was born on 18 March 1869 to a Unitarian family who instilled in him a strong sense of duty and morality. His main preoccupation was with social reform, addressing poverty and the quality of life of ordinary people, from eradicating slums to providing schools and hospitals. He became Prime Minister in May 1937, but resigned in May 1940 after many unsuccessful attempts to avert another war.