SECRET
EXECUTIVE BOARD
FRIDAY, MARCH 26th, 1943

PRESENT:

The Director General

The Parliamentary Secretary

The D.D.G.

Mr. Francis Williams

Mr. Gates

Mr. Grubb

Mr. Royds

Mr. Grisewood

Mr. Ryan

Commander Easton

Brigadier Neville

Admiral Carpendale

Mr. Lyne

Mr. Carter

1. REPORTS FROM SERVICE ADVISERS .

2. WORK OF THE MINISTRY .

[A/921]

The D.D.G. gave notice to Controllers that a request had been circulated for briefs on the various aspects of the Ministry's work, in connection with (l) Mr. McGovern's motion in the House, and (2) the Ministry Estimates. The Controllers present took note of these two requirements, which were felt to be distinct.

3. “WAR AND PEACE”.

[A/658/4]

Mr. Royds reported that Mr. Tom Arnold was proposing to produce a stage version of “War and Peace” in thirty-seven scenes, and that he had applied to the Ministry through an intermediary for support in the shape of timber, etc. Mr. Royds explained that there was no precedent for the Ministry supporting a stage performance, and he foresaw the probability of numerous similar requests if this one were granted. The Board concurred in the Chairman's view that, since the Ministry was not equipped to deal with theatrical enterprises, no support could be given in an isolated case; and it was agreed that the reply should take the line that the Ministry had no quota of materials for theatrical performances.

N.B. No Minutes were issued yesterday, March 25th.