402

SECRET
EXECUTIVE BOARD
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26th. 1943.

PRESENT:

The D.D.G.

Mr. Francis Williams

Mr. Gates

Mr. Grubb

Mr. Royds

Mr. Cruikshank

Mr. Kirkpatrick

Mr. Ryan

Commander Easton

Brigadier Neville

Admiral Carpendale

Mr. Lyne

Mr. Carter

1. REPORTS FROM SERVICE ADVISERS .

2. MIDDLE EAST AIR OPERATIONS

Admiral Carpendale reported that in future the operations of the Western Desert Air Force would be included in the Algiers communiqué; that air operations based on Malta would be reported in separate communiqués issued from Malta; and that the R.A.F. Middle East communiqué would deal only with operations in the eastern Mediterranean area.

[PP/278]

3. COMPOSITION OF THE FIRST ARMY .

Mr. Francis Williams referred to the current Empax Cypher Guidance which directed that the composition of the First Army under General Alexander as a British-United States-French combined force should not be publicised. It was the Board's impression that the composite character of “The First Army”, and the fact that it was under General Alexander's operational control, was not only well known but had been announced by General Eisenhower; but Brigadier Neville explained that the War Office were awaiting a reply to telegrams suggesting that this should be formally clarified from Allied Headquarters. Meanwhile, the Board confirmed that the Ministry should continue to follow the general policy established for the North African operation by the use of “Allied Forces” whenever apposite.

[PP/416]

4. MASARYK's BROADCAST . (See Minutes of February 18th)

Mr. Grubb reported that on investigation Reuters proved to have made proper enquiries before putting Masaryk's text on their overseas service and on being apprised of its cancellation had not in fact distributed it. The Board accordingly noted that the charge brought against them was unfounded.

[PP/6014]

5. M.O.I. SOCIAL CLUB (from Meeting of February 23rd.)

The D.D.G. reported that the Staff Associations and others interested were planning a Social Club in the Ministry. He indicated the scope and character of the proposed activities, and the Board approved the project in principle.

[A/670]

N.B . No Minutes have been issued since the 22nd February, 1943.