SECRET
EXECUTIVE BOARD

Minute of Meeting held on Saturday, 30th December, 1944

PRESENT:

D.G.

D.D.G.

Mr. Grubb

Mr. Francis Williams

Mr. Cruikshank

Mr. Archibald

General Tripp

Brigadier McGregor

Admiral Carpendale

Major Macgregor

Mr. Grisewood

Mr. Hodge.

Leave Stories

[-N/]

Attention was drawn to the unfortunate impression that would be created if wide publicity were given to British troops coming on leave from Western Europe at a time when American forces are heavily engaged in battle. It was explained that the War Office had issued instructions that no publicity should be given, but that 21st Army Group had meanwhile gone ahead with publicity arrangements. No press facilities were being offered at this end. Brigadier McGregor undertook to find out whether steps were being taken to prevent leave-stories coming through from 21st Army Group. It would be a matter for consideration thereafter whether the Ministry should circulate some form of request to editors asking them to play down the subject.