The graph of a foliation with Ehresmann connection and stability of leaves (Q1896726)

Let \(F\) be a smooth foliation of an arbitrary codimension \(q\) on an \(n\)-dimensional smooth manifold \(M\). \textit{H. E. Winkelnkemper} [Ann. Global Anal. Geom. 1, No. 3, 51-75 (1983; Zbl 0526.53039)] has introduced the concept of a graph \(G(F)\) of \(F\), which is equivalent to the notion of holonomy group defined by Ch. Ehresmann. Let \(\mathfrak M\) be a smooth \(q\)-dimensional distribution on \(M\) transverse to \(F\) and assume that \(\mathfrak M\) is an Ehresmann connection for \(F\) [see \textit{R. A. Blumenthal} and \textit{J. J. Hebda}, Q. J. Math., Oxf. II. Ser. 35, No. 140, 382-392 (1984; Zbl 0572.57016)]. In this paper, a new graph \(G_{\mathfrak M}(F)\) for \(F\) with Ehresmann connection \(\mathfrak M\) is defined and some of its properties are pointed out. For example, there is a natural topology on \(G_{\mathfrak M}(F)\) with respect to which \(G_{\mathfrak M}(F)\) is a Hausdorff smooth manifold of dimension \(n + k\), where \(k=\dim F\). Moreover, the space \(G(F)\) is Hausdorff if and only if the graphs \(G_{\mathfrak M}(F)\) and \(G(F)\) are canonically isomorphic. Sufficient conditions for the existence of an Ehresmann connection are given. One shows that foliations \(F\) satisfying such conditions possess global stability properties of leaves. For example, if there exists a compact leaf with finite fundamental group then all leaves of \(F\) are compact and have finite fundamental groups. A new criterion of validity of Millett's conjecture on the local stability of leaves of a compact foliation [see \textit{K. C. Millett}, Compact foliations, Lect. Notes Math. 484, 277-287 (1975; Zbl 0313.57018)] is obtained.