A History of the Ministry of Information, 1939-46

138 139

SECRET
File. Copy No. 288
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT

The aim of this Report is to present an impartial assessment of public feeling about the war and the war effort. It is not a record of fact , except in so far as public opinion Is Itself a fact. The public Is sometimes ill-informed, prejudiced, or inconsistent. The recording of such feelings without comment implies no endorsement of them.

The public is more prone to criticise than to praise. Good work or efficiency Is usually taken for granted. An accurate record of expressed feeling will, therefore, tend to be critical rather than laudatory. Though this Report must inevitably represent mainly articulate opinion, it has been found in practice that the views of the less articulate do not substantially differ, though their range is smaller.

The method of compiling the Report is such that the amount of space devoted to each subject, and the order in which subjects are placed, are roughly indicative of the amount of public interest each is arousing. The omission of a subject from the Report means that It is not a matter of widespread comment.

In assessing the state of public feeling there are no absolutes. Findings can only be comparative. Each issue of this Report must therefore be read as part of a continuous series. Unless the series is seen as a whole, the significance of fluctuations in feeling cannot be appreciated.

The figures In brackets at the end of each section refer to sources of information, a list of which is given on the next page. The weekly reports from Regional Information Officers (R.I.Os.) are compiled by their Regional Intelligence Officers from a large number of sources. Details of the methods of compilation and cross-checking are contained in a paper on “How the Home Intelligence Weekly Report is made”. This will be supplied on request to the Home Intelligence Division of the Ministry of Information.

37138-1

P.T.O.

140 142 -3- 143 -4- 145 -6- 146 -7- 148 -9- 149 -10- 150 -11- 152 -13- 153 -14- 154 -15- 155 -16- 156 -17- 157 -18- 158 -19- 159 -20-

Wt 19398 10M 7/43 H J R & L
SECRET
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT

No. 154. 16th September, 1943

(Covering period, from 7th to 14th September,1943)

I. GENERAL COMMENTS

1. General state of confidence and reaction to news

The news of Italy's capitulation raised people's spirits to a very high pitch and there was great enthusiasm and rejoicing at “the biggest and most definite good news of the war”. There appears, however, to have been little of the “Mafeking spirit”; and elation has since been steadied by the realisation that heavy fighting will be needed to beat the Germans in Italy, and by uncertainty about the present position there. On the whole, the public are said to be taking “a steady and well-balanced view” of the situation; while Italy's collapse is thought to have brought the end of the war “appreciably nearer”, the majority still think it will not be before 1944 - though a minority say “it will all be over by Christmas”.

The Italian news has overshadowed all else, but there is continued admiration for Russian successes and a slight decrease in uneasiness over her relations with the other Allies.

Though home affairs are “taking very much of a back seat” at the moment, there continues to be much grumbling at footwear difficulties, and at the blackout. Many people think the blackout might be “relaxed without undue danger, especially where the war effort would be aided”.

The change-over in war production is causing increasing comment.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13. 14 South Western, Scotland 17.)

2. The capitulation of Italy

The delight which greeted “the best news of the war” found expression in flag flying and, in Northern Ireland, bell ringing. Some women wept with relief; many people hearing the radio announcement, could not believe their ears and “rushed from their homes to confirm if they had heard rightly”. There was a “great eagerness to talk to strangers about the news”. Most people had believed that Italy would “give it up” sooner or later,though few had expected it so soon. But even in the first flush of exhilaration, there seem to have been few celebrations, many thinking “the time is not ripe for general thanksgiving”. The capitulation was rather looked on as “a major step towards getting at the real enemy - Germany” - giving us control of the Mediterranean, and opportunities of invading the Balkans or Southern France, and later bombing Germany and S.E. Europe.

The first wave of excitement quickly subsided as it was felt that there is strong German opposition to overcome. There is a feeling that, somehow or other, “we have missed the bus”, and have not got the initial advantage we appeared to have. People are “disappointed that the Germans were allowed to get such rapid control of Rome and the rail and postal communications”. There is concern, too, at the progress of the present fighting, particularly in the Salerno area. Many are beginning to suspect that they had been “unduly elated about a battle that had not been fought”.

The public's attitude to Italy and the Italians appears to be mixed. Some are bitter against Italy and “regret that she hasn't been thrashed”, and Rome “Hamburged”. Others now regard the Italians as “almost allies” and expect them to fight on our side. The most general attitude seems to be unsympathetic and distrustful: their capitulation is regarded as “another stab in the back to their friends”, while Italy's willingness to become active on our side is attributed to her “wish to be on the winning side in the hope that some plums, even if very few, will be hers when settling day arrives”. Many feel that we must not be too lenient, nor “forget Italy's evil doings”.

Anxious discussion is reported about the political side of Italy's surrender. People are insistent that, whatever the fate of the Italian people, “Fascist leaders and accomplices must receive just punishment”, and that there shall be “no more Darlan episodes”. Distrust and disapproval of Amgot are reported, chiefly because it is believed to be “bolstering up the Fascist elements in Italy”.

The Badoglio Government, as such, is little discussed.

The armistice terms have not been talked of much; but there is “pleasure at Eisenhower's statement that Russia approved of them”, as the general impression had been that Russia was being left out.

The surrender of the Italian fleet has given great pleasure. The fleet is thought by many to be the most valuable result of the capitulation, particularly as “it will free a useful number of warships for use against Japan”. There has, however, been “some irritation at the sudden transformation in official judgment of the Italian fleet from a useless to a beautiful and powerful fleet”.

The description of the ships’ arrival at Malta caught people's imagination, and there was “sympathy and pleasure at the joy of the people of Malta” who “so well deserved this cheering sight”.

British prisoners of war in Italy : There has been much discussion about the return of British prisoners in Italy. Many people's first thought was that they would soon be home; their relatives were “overwhelmed with joy”; some were asking if they could now send better parcels to their menfolk and if the old address would find them; a few even said: “He'll be home before our parcel would reach him”. Disappointment and worry have now returned; it is beginning to be assumed that no immediate repatriation is probable, and that many prisoners will be in German hands by now. There is great anxiety to know how many may already have been sent to Germany, and some desire for a Government statement.

Italian prisoners of war in this country : People - Scottish farmers, among them - are asking if they are to be returned to their own country or kept here. Their agricultural help will be missed.

Mussolini's “rescue” is viewed with some scepticism, and it is questioned whether he was ever in Badoglio's hands. At the same time, people feel that, if the German version is true, then we have “allowed them to make a propaganda scoop” and have ourselves “slipped up, in not getting Mussolini into our hands earlier”. It is not expected, however, that he will be of much use to the Germans, though it is feared he may rally some Italian troops to the new Fascist government. Some people regret we have lost this opportunity of showing how war criminals would be dealt with.

Supplies for Italy :People are not pleased at the idea of our having to supply Italy with coal and wheat, while Germany will now be freed from this burden. They feel “the Italians may get more than they are accustomed to, while we at home get less”, and they fear “we shall see further cuts in various commodities to provide the Italians with the necessities of life”. One widespread suggestion is that Italian prisoners of war should be sent down the mines to hew coal for Italy.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13. 14. South Western, Scotland)

3. Russia and the other Allies

Uneasiness at Russia's relations with U.S.A. and ourselves continues, but is rather less than during recent weeks. This appears to be due to the Prime Minister’ s explanation of Russia's absence from the Quebec Conference. But the desire for a three-power conference as soon as possible is again widely expressed.

The wish to give all possible help to Russia remains strong, and many feel we are not yet doing enough. Nevertheless there is said to he “a hardening attitude towards Russia’ s implied criticisms and ‘immediate second front’ demands”. People feel increasingly that Russia refuses to recognise what we have done in Africa and Italy, and by bombing the Germans and “pinning down an army in France and elsewhere” ; and there is a growing belief that “Russia could not have sustained her gigantic offensive without the vast quantities of war materials poured into her by Britain and America”. There is increasing irritation at “Russia's insistence on the opening of the one kind of second front they happen to visualise”, and there has been great praise for Sir Walter Citrine's “sane speech” on the subject “particularly his reminder that Japan is also our enemy”.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13. 17 four provincial P.Cs. 18 passim.)

4. The next move

Further landings on the Continent in the near future - not just in another part of Italy - seem to be generally expected and hoped for; people still find many portents to support their belief. Speculation remains varied, both as to place and time, but people persist in thinking that invasion of the West of Europe is the shortest way to Berlin, and the sooner the better - though at our time, and not Russia's.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13)

5. The Allied air offensive

Though overshadowed by other events considerable satisfaction continues at our air offensive. Comment follows familiar lines. Some feel we should have bombed Berlin while German morale was still affected by Italy's capitulation.

The recent invasion exercises in the Channel were thought by some to be a prelude to invasion; others thought they were “a bluff to get the Luftwaffe into the sky”, and are wondering why “they did not play”. A rumour that France had actually been invaded on September 9 circulated quite widely in two Regions.

(1.2.3.5.5SE.6.7.9.10.11. 17 five provincial P.Cs. 18 passim.)

6. The Prime Minister

His Quebec speech (August 31) : Comment continues on the same lines as last week.

The speech at Harvard (September 6) seems to have caused little comment, though some discussion of Basic English has resulted among educated people, particularly in Scotland.

(1.3.5.5SE.6.7.8.10.11.13. 17. 18 passim.)

6. The Russian offensive

Admiration continues, but there seems to be a growing assumption that “the Germans are retreating intentionally to a line nearer their frontier”, and are “not sustaining the succession of calamitous defeats the Russians are making out”.

Doubt continues of figures given in Russian communiqués.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13. 17 passim. 18 passim.)

7. Hitler's speech (September 10)

A little contemptuous comment is reported. “He knows he is beaten and must do something to camouflage it with heroics.”

(1.6.7.13)

8. The Trades Union Congress

There has been considerable interest in the Congress this year and in the presence of members of the Russian delegation. Great praise is reported for the speeches by:

(a) Mr. Bevin . By far the most comment aroused by the whole Conference was about his statement on demobilisation. While many think it only fair that “first in should be first out”, it is also felt that the following claims should be considered:

(i) Key men in industry who have most probably been called up late. It is felt that the quickest way to get post-war employment going is to release these men and others with jobs waiting for them.

(ii) Family men.

(iii) Those serving abroad.

(b) Sir Walter Citrine . His reply to M. Shvernik is felt to have put Anglo-Soviet relations in their right perspective.

(c) Mr. Jarman (Seamen's Union). Some refer to his speech as “the gem of the proceedings”.

(1.2.4.5.6.8.9.10.11.13)

9. Raids on this country

During the past three weeks comment on the expectation of raids on this country has declined. There is some fear that “Germany will have a last fling when she is desperate” (Four Regions), but otherwise little expectation. It has been rumoured in London that a large bomber force was discovered assembled in Northern France for reprisal raids; this was attacked by Fortresses and completely destroyed.

Criticism of the air raid warning system is reported from three Regions. At Bognor and Portsmouth the ‘All Clear’ is said to have seen given “while planes were still in the vicinity and gun-fire in progress”. In Plymouth “bombs were dropped as the ‘All Clear! was sounding”.

(2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.10. 17 one provincial P.C. 18 three P.D.Rs.)

10. Mr. Learie Constantine

Indignation continues about “this most abominable business” (Six Regions). It is said that the manager of the Imperial Hotel “should have invited the complainant to leave if he did not wish to be in the same hotel as a distinguished coloured guest”... “Talk about Hitlerism, it exists in this land of ours and must be rooted up”. It is again suggested that Mr. Constantine should be invited to dine with the Royal Family. His broadcast was heard with sympathy and appreciation.

(1,2,5.5SE.6.7.9.10)

11. Broadcasting and presentation of news

Interest in news has greatly increased. Criticism of its presentation remains slight.

The playing of the National Anthems of Britain, America and the U.S.S.R. in the 9 o'clock news on September 8 gave pleasure and satisfaction (Three Regions). Wales is pleased that the 5 o'clock Welsh news on September 8 was the first to announce Italy capitulation.

Praise this week for : the broadcast made from a bomber over Berlin, September 4 (Four Regions).

Mr. Dalton's Postscript September 7 (Three Regions ): This received a mixed reception, but was praised for its frankness.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11)

II SPECIAL COMMENTS

MONTHLY REVIEW

12. Industry

During the last four weeks there has been an increase in comment. The main topics have been:

Production (All Regions): A fairly general belief that “things are not as good as they might be” is attributed to widespread stories of:

(a) Enforced idleness . Specifically mentioned are Woolwich Arsenal, Plessey’ s of Walthamstow, R.O.F. Aycliffe, the British Overseas Airways Corporation at Hythe, Southampton, and aircraft factories in Dorset. At Sherborne, irritation has been increased by press advertisements for part-time and other workers for factories where both men and women already employed “are sick of hanging about with nothing to do”.

It is also suggested in the Northern Region that shipyard workers think “the powers that be are not anxious to have the building of merchant ships accelerated, as reliance is being placed on U.S. output”.

(b) slacking of workers . This is variously felt to be due to:

(i) “A considerable lack of honest effort.” At the Ordnance Depot, Tongham, near Aldershot, women on part-time work complain of well-paid men workers asleep during their working hours.

(ii) Income tax.

(iii) A feeling that the war is nearly won. Thus, in Croydon, managements are complaining that “in some instances workers have slacked off following Admiral Sir Edward Evans’ statement to Civil Defence workers (Sept. 8) that the war will be over by March 3. This statement received wide publicity as it was “splashed” in the local papers.

(iv) Lack of interest in their jobs because of talk of over production.

(v) Lack of sympathy between workers and management, in some cases allied to a belief that firms are working for postwar.

(c) The closing down of some munition works

Workers are said to be nervous about the loss of work and wages entailed, or likely to be entailed, by the changeover in production; Clydeside is described as “seething with talk about the changeover”. The decision that women, “who will thus become redundant, should go into machine shops to replace men who will be called up for the Services has led to the formation by some shop stewards of a ‘Campaign Committee’ to protest against the proposed redundancy of the women”.

Wages (All Regions, several more than once): Criticism continues of:

(a) The high wages paid to munition workers and to juveniles.

(b) The disparity of pay between:

(i) People doing the same jobs in different factories. Those in Government and those in private firms, for instance.

(ii) Munition workers and, variously, agriculture workers, transport workers, servicemen and miners.

Transfer of workers (Six Regions): The two main complaints are still of billeting difficulties, and of transfer to less well paid jobs.

The transfer of Scottish girls to England continues to be highly unpopular and many bitter comments are heard.

Long hours (Four Regions) : It is felt that too much overtime is harmful to the workers - particularly juveniles - and to production. On the other hand, workers would not, it is surmised, “welcome any reduction in wages”.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11. 17. 18 passim)

13. Manpower

The proposed registration of older women (Eight Regions and Postal Censorship) continues to be unpopular; again mainly because “it's a shame to raise the age from 45 before all the 20s and 30s are weeded out”. Evasion and overstaffing both “need a complete over-haul”. Other objection are:

(a) These women are already doing as much as they, can, “what with the time now taken housekeeping, with, shopping and transport difficuities”. Too severe a strain on their health is feared.

(b) Many of them are looking after young children while the mothers are at work.

Among the women themselves some agree with the general condemnation, others have accepted the proposal philosophically, and yet others “are worrying themselves sick about it”.

In London, it is suggested much of the hostility is based on a misunderstanding of the position: “Registration is thought to mean immediate call-up and women do not realise they have a right to appeal.”

Deferment cuts for men under 39 (Two Regions): In Scotland, “while men and Civil Servants are on the whole considering their threatened call-up calmly, key men in industry are annoyed”. In the Midland Region fuller details are asked for of trades, industries and professions likely to be affected.

During the last four weeks - in addition to the proposed registration of older women, evasion of national service, and overstaffing - there has been criticism of:

(a) The lack of domestic help (Six Regions, four more than once). The difficulties of expectant mothers and invalids are particularly mentioned: “Not only can they get no help at home, but they can also get no accommodation at nursing homes and. hospitals.” It is felt that “there should be an organised scheme for home helps for those with legitimate needs”.

Two reports refer to the high pay of domestics, “out of all proportion to the services rendered”. Hotels and boarding houses are blamed for forcing prices up, by paying, for instance, 15/- a day all food found, or, in another case, £1 for half a day only.

(b) The misdirection of manpower (Five Regions), Stories are reported , of labour being directed to factories where there is insufficient work, and of skilled workers being put on unskilled work.

(c) Shortage of staff (Four Regions), Firms of all kinds, particularly small ones, “are finding it difficult to carry on with the staffs left to them”. They resent “the direction of members of their staff to jobs where there is little work to do”.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.9.10.11. 17. 18 ten P.D.Rs.)

14. The post-war world

During the past four weeks, discussion has continued along familiar lines. The great majority of people remain anxious for plans to be made now, “to avoid a repetition of the chaos after the last war”, and there are persistent demands for less talk and more action” on the part of the government. In London particularly, “the prospects of early victory” are thought to have increased interest in postwar problems, and less people are said to be advocating the “plans can wait, lets win the war first” policy.

The desire for social security, particularly the implementation of the Beveridge Report, remains as strong as ever especially among working-class people who feel that “the Tories and the vested interests are doing their best to torpedo any social security plans”. Cynicism and apprehension as to the Government’ s intentions are still widely reported; it is feared that “they do not mean business as far as Beveridge is concerned”. A small minority still feel that “social security must depend on the state of postwar trade”, and fear that “we may be unable to afford Beveridge”.

Other problems discussed include:

Housing (Seven Regions, several more than once). Anxiety and concern - particularly among servicemen - at the housing shortage continue. People are asking: “If it's like this now, what will it be like when the boys return?” and they demand that the Government “face up to the issue at full speed”. The need for control of land speculation, and more definite pronouncements of Government policy on the Uthwatt, Barlow and Scott Reports, is also expressed.

The desire for modern “non-jerry-built” houses with all labour-saving devices is said to be strong among working people.

Employment (Six Regions, several more than once). Discussion about the prospects of postwar employment continues along familiar lines. Concern is particularly’ expressed by servicemen, who wonder if “there will be a job waiting for them after demobilisation”, and by war-workers whose jobs close at the end of the war.

Education (six Regions, several more than once). Discussion on the White Paper continues along familiar lines (see Home Intelligence Weekly Reports Nos. 146-149).

Agriculture (Six Regions, several more than once). Farmers continue to express concern at the lack of official statements on postwar agricultural policy, and some fear that the Government means to “let them down again”. Others dread their markets will be undercut after the war, by an influx of cheap imported food.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.13. 17 one Special, five provincial P.Cs. 18 two P.D.Rs.)

15. Miners, mining and coal

The award of the National Tribunal (The Porter Committee) on pit youths' wages : Seven Regions refer to criticism and irritation at this award. “No wonder the mining families send their boys into any work except mining - this is much less than office boys or factory hands are getting.” In Scotland, while a small minority are said to be pained at the “contemptuous manner” adopted by the miners’ leaders, the public generally are thought to agree with them.

There is “malicious amusement that the award should have coincided with the Government's appeal for recruits”, “The announcement of the award has killed the appeal.”

The Government's campaign to obtain labour for the mines : During the past two weeks there has been considerable criticism of this campaign, and “sceptical doubts” on the possibilities of its success (Twelve Regions). It is thought that its success will be hindered by the following beliefs:

(a) “Mining is a ‘ghastly’ life” (Seven Regions). Bad conditions, low wages, the nature of the work, “the long history of injustice in the mines”, are thought to make the present appeal “almost frivolous, it is so superficial”. “Parents would rather go to prison than allow their sons to go down the mines.”

(b) Inexperienced men in the mines are worse than none at all (Four Regions). “The ‘pit sense’ and skill acquired by the miner are not attained in the short space of eight months.

(c) Men will prefer service in the Forces (Two Regions).

The following suggestions for tackling the problem are made:

(a) The return of skilled men from the Forces. In six Regions this , “is felt to be the solution”. “It should have been foreseen that the strong young miners being called to the Forces would reduce production.” “Boys should enter the Services and skilled miners now in the Forces should return to the pits.”

(b) Italian prisoners of war should be employed in the mines. (Three Regions), “as Germany used our prisoners last time, and is no doubt doing again”.

(c) “Some guarantee of permanent Government control” (Two Regions).

In the Southern Region, the advertisements in the ‘Times’, the ‘Observer’, and the ‘Daily Telegraph’ are thought to be a waste of money, “since no readers of those papers could possibly be expected to volunteer as miners”.

Coal for Italy : During the last four weeks resentment at the possibility of coal being sent to Italy has been reported (Eight Regions), “particularly since our own needs are far from being met”.

The fact that “boys of sixteen may be forced into the pits to send coal to the Italians” is particularly resented. Miners, it is also thought, cannot be expected to produce more coal if at the same time large quantities are being shipped to Italy. “Bring the Italians over here and let them do the digging.”

It is suggested that “there has been some confusion of propaganda in this direction” (Three Regions). Recent statements are thought not to have sufficiently emphasised that the coal will be needed to keep essential services going, in Allied interests.

Fuels and domestic coal : During the last four weeks anxiety about the coal situation for the coming winter has increased. It is felt that the need for stricter economies needs stressing.

There have also been complaints of the difficulty of stocking- up coal - largely because of transport difficulties (Three Regions). “Ordering of coal in response to fuel advertisements is a farce when orders placed in June have not yet been completed.”

The Paraffin Priority Scheme: Complaints of the inadequacy of the paraffin ration come from three Regions. People with no other means of heating and lighting, or with very large houses, are said to be “loud in their grumbles”.

It is thought that people are overstating their needs on the application form in the belief that they will be allocated only a proportion of their needs (Two Regions).

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11. 17. 18 fifteen P.D.Rs.)

16. Clothing

During the past four weeks clothing and footwear problems have remained as major topics on the home front. The various complaints may be summarised as follows:

Footwear (All Region): This is the principle difficulty of housewives and causes more comment than any other clothing item. Apprehension about the footwear position in the coming winter has increased during the past month.

The poor quality of shoes, particularly children’ s is the main cause of complaint: “It is feared that shoes as at present available will be poor protection in bad weather.” The shortage of children's boots and shoes is also causing increased concern. Parents in Scotland are saying: “What is the use of providing cod-liver oil and orange juice at one end while the other end is exposed to the rigours of our devilish winter?”

Other comments on footwear include:

(a) Shoe repairs (Twelve Regions). Complaints of the difficulty and length of time taken to get shoes repaired are very widespread. “In some areas the position is so serious that repairs cannot be effected under six to eight weeks”... “In Coatbridge the leading shoe repairer had a queue of over 100 with repairs, on opening after the holiday period.” The shortage of shoe leather for home repairs and the “rubbishy nature” of leather used in repairs are complained of. The call-up of repairers “who are directed to National Service of some kind” is deprecated.

(b) Increased coupons for shoes (Six Regions). Criticism has continued during the past two weeks and people think “it would have been better to add two coupons to suits and dresses”.

(c) Wooden-soled shoes (Four Regions). It is thought a campaign is needed if the Government want people to wear wooden-soled shoes. Their price is thought to be too high.

Clothing coupons (All Regions) : These remain a major topic of discussion. The difficulties of the poorer sections of the community whose pre-war incomes never permitted a good stock of clothes are stressed. “Even the most careful insist that the present ration does not allow them to buy the necessities unless they were fortunate enough to have heavy pre-war stocks.” The problem of keeping pace with the demands of growing children is again stressed. Specific mention also continues to be made of:

(a) Coupons for household linen (Eight Regions). The demand for these continues.”Householders’ stocks of linen are getting lower and on the coupons now allowed there is no prospect [Text missing] marrieds is particularly mentioned.

(b) Coupons for industrial workers (Six Regions). Heavy industrial workers are said to be in a desperate position. “The coupon allowance covers only working clothes and leaves nothing for best.”

Utility clothing (Eight Regions): The poor quality of clothing continues to be alleged. It is again argued "goods should be dependable, as many articles sold to-day are a waste of material and labour. “Men complain of shirts and collars shrinking in the first wash.”

Sam Browne belts (Two Regions): It is hoped that their abolition will mean more leather for children's shoes and repairs.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13. 17 three provincial 18. thirty-two P.D.Rs.)

17. Housing

During the past four weeks , the shortage of housing and accommodation has remained acute. It is alleged that many large houses have been held by Government Departments and never used, and it is thought that these would be better employed as dwelling- places. The high price of housing is also much commented on. “Rents are likely to remain high when people pay over £1000 for an agricultural cottage.”

Agricultural housing (Four Regions): The slowness in the erection of agricultural cottages and their high rental are criticised.

Local Authorities’ new powers to requisition empty houses (Four Regions) are thought to be a very short and inadequate step in the right direction; there is some cynicism about their effectiveness.

(1.2.3.4.5.6.8.9.10.11.13. 17 two provincial P.Cs. 18 four P.D.Rs.)

18. Food

There is less comment on the food situation this week. Complaints of the high prices of vegetables (Five Regions), and of the shortage of fruit, vegetables and tomatoes, continue, however.

The announcement that the jam ration will be doubled during the twelve weeks beginning September 19 has been welcomed (Three Regions).

During the last four weeks satisfaction with the food situation and praise for Lord Woolton, “the country’ s best doctor”, have been general. This has been qualified, however, by the grumbles already reported about the shortage, distribution and high price of fruit, vegetables, and tomatoes. In addition, the following topics (and the shortages and complaints listed in the Monthly Summary of Constant Topics) have been the subject of complaint.

Milk supplies : There have been reports of dissatisfaction about:

(a) The shortage of dried milk (Six Regions).

(b) Milk going sour (Five Regions). “It's a full day old before we receive it.” The long distances involved in distribution, “wholesale mixing” at depots, dirty milk bottles, and the poor quality of milk are all blamed.

(c) The reduction of the ration (Four Regions). There is also anxiety about the milk position for the coming winter.

(d) Irregular deliveries (Four Regions). There are again complaints of the milkless day; in some cases there are said to be no Saturday or Sunday deliveries.

(e) Rationalisation of milk deliveries (Four Regions). There are still grumbles about not being able to choose the milkman and that the Co-operative Wholesale Society is not affected by the scheme.

Fish : While there is some satisfaction at improved supplies (Five Regions), complaints of shortage, distribution and poor quality continue (Eight Regions). There is still some bitter discussion about the dumping of fish back into the sea (Two Regions).

Bread : There have again been complaints of the poor keeping quality of the National Loaf (Seven Regions). Some Council pig-food bins are said to be “full of half-used National Loaves”. There are also complaints of the poor quality of flour.

Sweets and chocolates : Inadequate supplies are reported (Five Regions).

Inadequacy of rations are complained of by the following:

(a) Workers in heavy industries (Five Regions).

(b) people living alone (Three. Regions) , whose difficulties in obtaining goods with higher points value are stressed.

Ministry of Food Food Facts advertisements are praised (Four Regions) particularly the advice on the bottling of fruit and vegetables. “They are thought to take the place of the family recipe book, which speaks for itself.”

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13. 17 passim. 18 passim)

19. Shopping difficulties and food queues

Complaints have been widespread during the last four weeks (All Regions and Postal Censorship). There is much concern at the anticipated earlier closing of shops, and the possibility of goods being in short supply during the coming winter.

Chief complaints are from the following:

(a) Housewives on war work . They complain that even now they find it extremely hard to do their shopping, and have, in any case, no time for queuing “for the tit-bits which are scooped up by the leisured”.

(b) Country dwellers who, having to cope with transport difficulties, often find things sold out by the time they arrive.

(c) Residents at holiday resorts. Complaints continue of goods being bought up by visitors.

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.13)

20. Civil Defence and Fire watching

The New Fireguard Orders (Four Regions) continue to be criticised for their complexity. It is felt that there are “too many orders which over-ride one another”.

The blackout : During the past four weeks, some dread of the winter blackout, and persistent demands for its relaxation have been reported. People feel that this winter “it could be modified without due danger”, and dwellers in the provinces ask for “an improved lighting system, the same as London”.

In three Regions, people, especially in the poorer districts, are thought to be growing careless over their blackout.

Civil Defence workers (Two Regions): During the past three weeks there has been occasional reference to slackness of Civil Defence workers owing to the absence of bombing, Difficulties are being encountered, in getting them to take their training seriously. Fireguard personnel - especially women - object to exercise as a waste of time.

(1.2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.13 17 seven provincial P.Cs.)

Agriculture

During the past four weeks “bumper crops” have been reported, in some cases safely harvested, but there is also much anxiety about the weather, particularly over grain crops. In the Lake Districts the “fine wheat crops are becoming rapidly spoiled by the heavy and increasing rainfall”. “Grain is wasted in Keswick as the weather is not suitable even if the soil is.”

People note with approval that “more land than ever before” is under cultivation and it is hoped that “we shall not let England go to waste again”. But farmers in Berkshire and Wales fear it may not be realised how much is being taken out of the land by constant cropping, now that the usual rotation cannot be practised.

Labour shortage is reported (Five Regions) , and there is doubt whether some farmers have taken full advantage of volunteer labour available. In some cases it is warmly welcomed, but it is also said that “with the exception of a few, holiday-makers make no serious efforts except under direct supervision”. Many farmers prefer soldiers, and appreciation is expressed in the Southern Region of help given by the army, particularly by troops from wheat-growing districts of Canada. In the North East, some farmers grumble because more troops have not been allocated to them, as “owing to the bad weather many more helpers are needed on the occasional fine days if crops are to be saved”. Schoolboys have done “good work in harvest and potato lifting”. There is both criticism of “sketchy and tardily planned” accommodation for volunteers and appreciation of arrangements made.

Agricultural machinery and implements (Four Regions): The more general availability of machinery is said to have a “stimulating effect on the tempo of the workers”, and a census of all implements is suggested with a view to their being fully used. One of the most serious handicaps is the lack of spare parts, - “sometimes it is necessary to get in touch with twenty firms before finding the required part”. It is suggested that agriculture should have a fair share of priority in manufacture of these spares, and records kept of where they can be obtained.

Italian prisoners (Three-Regions): There are again complaints of “too much liberty”, and of “association with English girls”. It is thought that cautions given to girls should be enforced by “something more stringent than pious advice”.

Women's Land Army (Two Regions): It is said that the W.L.A. does not, in some places, receive the same consideration and facilities for canteens, etc., as other women's services; and it is felt that the W.L.A. should have the same treatment as the A.T.S. when on leave.

Potatoes (TWO Regions): There is comment on the shortage of feed potatoes. Some farmers complain they cannot get a licence from the Ministry of Food to sell potatoes damaged by wire worm for animal food, and they fear these will be wasted. Others say that because of transport regulations potatoes are being dug in as manure by growers.

Farm repairs and upkeep of tools (Two Regions): Farmers comment on the difficulty over repairs owing to the removal of small country builders to other work, and of the distance (sometimes a five-mile walk)to the nearest blacksmith for horse-shoeing and sharpening of implements.

Domestic help on farms (Two Regions): Farmers wives complain that home helps are still not available and labour is getting shorter and shorter.

Pay for agricultural labourers (Two Regions) : The proposed 5/- increase to farm labourers is thought by some farmers to be unnecessary, as they have many privileges such as cheap or rent- free cottages, milk and other commodities, and “the average farm labourer is now earning £5 with overtime”.

Further comments, each from one Region, are:

(a) Criticism of the taking over by the Government of the County Veterinary services. Some farmers say the only result has been a definite increase in sheep scab and higher costs.

(b) Praise for the generous treatment of small poultry owners by some farmers, in giving facilities for gleaning.

(c) Criticism of the Ministry of Food in expecting the incentive of ½d. per gallon for an increased supply of milk to operate in two or three weeks’ time. “It takes a long time to produce a milk cow.”

(d) Uneasiness caused by the report of successful action taken by a landlord against a tenant who had been ordered by the W.A.E.C. to plough land. On giving up tenancy after two years he was sued for ploughing and leaving land contrary to agreement.

(e) In Maidenhead, the Temple golf links, with huge acreage of meadow land, are “reserved for a few gentlemen to play golf”, while Pinkneys Green common has been cleared, at enormous expense, for corn.

(1.2.3.5SE.6.7.8.9.10. 18 sixteen P.D.Rs.)

22. Transport difficulties

Complaints of transport difficulties continue to be widespread (see Constant Topics No.l) , particularly:

(a) Overcrowding of buses and trains (Nine Regions, several more than once), by (i) holiday makers (Eight Regions,several more than once), though during the past two weeks complaints have decreased;(ii) Short distance travellers crowding out long distance travellers(Five Regions); (iii) Shoppers travelling at rush hour (Three Regions).

(b) Restriction of bus services (Eight Regions), particularly at week-ends and in the evening.

(c) The inadequacy of :

(i) Bus services in rural areas (Seven Regions, several more than once).

(ii) Transport for workers , particularly buses at rush hours(Seven Regions, several more than once). There are demand for the priority badge system from districts where it has not introduced; and, from districts where it has, complaints that it does not always ensure transport for workers.

(d) Time wasted queuing, and failure of buses to stop at recognised stopping places (Three Regions each).

(1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.10.11)

23. Waste of petrol

Complaints of waste of petrol continue to be fairly wide-spread (see Constant Topics No.6). There is still some feeling that petrol allowance are not fairly allocated (Five Regions),and that the “wangling of allowances still goes on”.There are complaints of petrol wasted by:

(a) Taxis and private cars (Five Regions each) , particularly for holiday making, greyhound racing and pub-crawling.

(b) Pleasure fairs , “who use as much petrol as a convoy” , and horse boxes bringing horses from long distances to agricultural shows (one Region each).

The following are particularly accused of wasting their petrol allowances: farmers (Three Regions); government officials (Two Regions); works managers, cinema proprietors, the Services and Home Guard (One Region each).

During the past two weeks three Regional reports have referred to rumours that the basic ration is to be reinstated for those whose cars are now taxed.

(1.3.4.5SE.6.7.8.9.10)

24. Salvage

Complaints of non-collection of household and other salvage have continued during the past four weeks. Bones are specially mentioned: “Bones salvaged by housewives are reasonably clean, but whole heads sent by butchers become a nuisance when they cannot “be collected daily”.

Some people think that interest in salvage collecting is flagging and “the time may be opportune for a general boost”, but the “iron salvage collected in school playgrounds” and the “dumps of old tins” are likely to have detrimental effect on any appeal.

There is complaint of iron salvage removed for which no compensation has been paid, and of the rates of compensation. It is thought that the Government should pay reasonable prices, and the fact that only 3% of the public have claimed compensation is no indication of their willingness to give up their railings, but is due rather to the feeling that it is not worthwhile to claim a few shillings for what will cost pounds to replace.

Paper salvage and book drives : There is comment on the waste of paper both by the public and by the Government. “The Government tells us there is a shortage, yet who wastes paper as much as Government departments?” It is thought there is great room for economy in posters and leaflets. Continued good response to the appeal for books in the North Eastern Region is reported.

(1.2.3.7.8.9.10. 24)

25. Health

During the last four weeks , there have continued to be many complaints of tiredness and ill health, particularly among women workers. This fatigue is variously thought to he due to long hours of work,”the additional drain on energy” of Civil Defence duties, insufficient fresh air or daylight in factories, wartime food, and “the harassing problems of housekeeping on top of it all”.

“A whole crop of minor ailments” such as shingles, boils, rashes , festering fingers and varicose conditions are reported in some factories.

Two Regions refer to concern over the spread of impetigo and “the carelessness of people who have an infectious disease in the house in spreading germs”.

(3.4.5.6.9.10.11. Several more than once.)

26. Venereal Disease

There has been, little comment on the Venereal disease campaign during the last four weeks. Praise has been accorded the “more vivid press advertisements”, as a result of which more people are thought to he seeking advice, but some belief is reported that the letters in the advertisements are merely “made-up stuff”. There is also some fear that the campaign is not “cutting much ice among the ordinary people, or hitting the mark where it is needed”.

(2.3.5.6.10)

27. Income tax

The widespread demand for “pay as you go Income Tax” continues. There is much dissatisfaction with the present system, particularly among workers who:

(a) Are working fewer hours than previously because of the production change-over.

(b) Are transferred to less well paid jobs.

(c) Return to work after a period of sickness.

(1.2.3,4.8.9.10. Several more than once.)

28. Pensions and allowances

Comment has been less during the past four weeks. People feel that further improvement is still needed, but the increased pensions for widows with children “is another nibble in the right direction”. It is thought widows’ pensions should not be taxed and that parents who have lost a child on war service should rank for pension without a means test. The Pensions Tribunals are welcomed but there is some impatience at the delay in their operation.

Other points raised are:

(i) Servicemen's wives with families have difficulty in living on the Government allowances. Expectant mothers need more than their allowance.

(ii) The unnecessary hardship caused to servicemen's wives whose grants are reduced following an increase in their husband's pay. If the man is abroad nobody informs him of the cut, and “in the time that elapses before he can hear from her she gets into difficulties”.

Old age pensions : There have been few references during the past four weeks, but criticism of the inadequacy of pensions and the delay in applying a remedy continues.

(1.2.3.5.9.10)

III. MONTHLY SUMMARY OF CONSTANT TOPICS NO. 14

(Covering the period from 17th August to 14th September 1943)

All topics arising for the first time are included in the main Weekly Reports. The following have lost their novelty, while still retaining their importance for large sections of the public. They are arranged according to the frequency with which they have been reported.

No subject has been included to which fewer than nine references have been made during the past month.

1. Transport difficulties

26 August Regions 1.2.3.5.5SE.6.7.8.10.
2 September Regions 1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.10.
9 September Regions 2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.10.11.
16 September Regions 1.2.3.4.5.6.7.10.11.

2. Difficulty of getting shoes repaired

26 August Regions 1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.9.10.11.
2 September Regions 2.3.5SE.6.10.11.
9 September Regions 3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.
16 September Regions 1.2.4.6.7.8.9.10.11.

3. Too many young people in civilian jobs and evading the call-up

26 August Regions 1.2.3.4.5SE.8.9.10.11.
2 September Regions 1.2.3.5.5SE.6.7.
9 September Regions 3.5.5SE.9.10.
16 September Regions 1.2.5.6.

4. Inadequacy of clothing coupons for:

(a) Growing children

26 August Regions 1.2.3.4.5.6.10.
2 September Regions 1.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.10.
9 September Regions 3.5.5SE.6.10
16 September Regions 5.10.

(b) Renewing household goods

26 August Regions 3.5.6.7.8.10.
2 September Regions 3.5.5SE.6.10.
9 September Regions 3.5.9.10.
16 September Regions 2.3.5.6.10.

(c) Unspecified

26 August Regions 2.3.4.5.7.9.10.
2 September Regions 2.5.7.10.
9 September Regions 3.5.7.9.
16 September Regions 2.4.5.9.

(d) Working clothes for workers

26 August Regions 3.5.9.10.
2 September Regions 1.3.10.
9 September Regions 3.
16 September Regions 5SE.

5. Shopping difficulties and food queues

26 August Regions 1.2.5.5SE.8.
2 September Regions 1.2.4.5.8.10.
9 September Regions 2.3.4.7.9.
16 September Regions 2.4.5.6.10.

6. Waste of petrol

26 August Regions 1.3.8.
2 September Regions 1.3.5.5SE.8.10.
9 September Regions 3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.
16 September Regions 3.6.8.

7. Milk difficulties due to :

(a) Reduction of ration

26 August Regions 6.9.
2 September Regions 6.7.10.
9 September Regions 5.5SE.6.7.10.
16 September Regions 4.5.5SE.6.

(b) Distribution

26 August Regions 5.9.
2 September Regions 2.3.10.
9 September Regions 5.5SE.7.10.
16 September Regions 1.2.7.9.10.

(c) Poor Quality

26 August Regions 3.5.6.
2 September Regions 5.10.
9 September Regions 5SE.10.
16 September Regions 5.9.

(d) Does not keep

26 August Regions 3.5.6.
2 September Regions 5.10.
9 September Regions 10.
16 September Regions 1.10.

8. Enforced idleness and wasted time and complaints of bad organisation in industry

26 August Regions 1.2.5.6.10.11.
2 September Regions 5SE.6.11.
9 September Regions 2.3.6.
16 September Regions 1.5.6.8.9.

9. High price of green vegetables and lettuce

26 August Regions 3.4.5.6.
2 September Regions 3.4.5.
9 September Regions 4.5.5SE.7.8.
16 September Regions 4.5.5SE.11.13.

10. Shortage of domestic help

26 August Regions 1.3.4.7.9.
2 September Regions 1.2.4.7.
9 September Regions 7.9.
16 September Regions 1.4.9.

11. Tiredness and ill-health

26 August Regions 3.5.9.
2 September Regions 3.5.10.
9 September Regions 3.4.5.5SE.6.
16 September Regions 5.6. 9.

12. Disparity in pay

26 August Regions 2.3.4.5.8.
2 September Regions 8.
9 September Regions 6.7.8.
16 September Regions 4.8.9.10.

13. Preferential treatment by shopkeepers and under-the-counter sales (chiefly for fruit and tomatoes)

26 August Regions. 6.8.10.
2 September Regions 3.10.
9 September Regions 3.7.10.
16 September Regions 1.2.7.10.

14. Inadequacy of Service pay and dependants’ allowances and Service pensions

26 August Regions 1.3.5.
2 September Regions 1.2.3.5.10.
9 September Regions 3.5.
16 September Regions 1.5.

15. Complaints about salvage collection

26 August Regions 1.2.7.10.
2 September Regions 2.8.10.
9 September Regions 8.
16 September Regions 1.2.8.

16. Slacking of workers

26 August Regions 5.
2 September Regions 5SE.10.
9 September Regions 6.9.
16 September Regions 1.5.7.10.

17. Anti-Semitism

26 August Regions 3.
2 September Regions 3.5.6.8.10.
9 September Regions 5.8.
16 September Regions 5SE.

SHORTAGES

18. Shortage and poor quality of footwear for:

(a) Children

26 August Regions 1.2.4.5.5SE.6.9.10.
2 September Regions 1.2.4.5.5SE.8.10.
9 September Regions 2.3.4.5.6.7.8.9.10.11.
16 September Regions 1.2.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.9.10.11.

(b) Adults

26 August Regions 1.3.5.9.
2 September Regions 3.5.7.8.
9 September Regions 3.5.6.9.10.
16 September Regions 1.2.3.4.5.6.9.10.

19. Shortage and poor quality of Adults’ and Children's clothing, including Utility

26 August Regions 1.3.4.5.7.8.9.10.11.13.
2 September Regions 1.3.4.5.5SE.6.7.8.13.
9 September Regions 3.4.5.5SE.7.10.
16 September Regions 1.4.5.

20. Shortage and. high price of housing accommodation and difficulty of billeting workers

26 August Regions 3.4.5.10.11.
2 September Regions 1.2.3.5.6.10.11.13.
9 September Regions 3.5.6.10.13.
16 September Regions 1.4.5.7.13.

21. Shortage and unequal distribution of fresh fruit

26 August Regions 1.2.6.7.10.11.
2 September Regions 1.2.3.6.7.8.
9 September REgions 2.3.4.7.8.9.
16 September Regions 1.2.4.7.

22. Shortage of fish

26 August Regions 2.5.5SE.10
2 September Regions 1.2.3.5.5SE.11.
9 September Regions 5.5SE.7.
16 September Regions 1.2.4.5SE.6.

23. Shortage of biscuits

26 August Regions 1.2.5SE.8.
2 September Regions 3.7.8
9 September Regions 2.3.5SE.6.8.
16 September Regions 1.24.5SE.11.

24. Shortage of shoe polish

26 August Regions 2.4.5SE.6.7.
2 September Regions 2.4.5SE.6.
9 September Regions 3.5.
16 September Regions 1.4.6.10.

25. Shortage of tomatoes

26 August Regions 1.7.11.
2 September Regions 1.3.8.
9 September Regions 4. 6. 7. 8. 9.
16 September Regions 2.4.

26. Shortage of custard powder

26 August Regions 2. 5SE.
2 September Regions 2.3.
9 September Regions 4.5SE.7.10.
16 September Regions 1.5SE.6.8.

27. Shortage and high price of crockery, glass and kitchenware

26 August Regions 1.10.
2 September Regions 1.5SE.
9 September Regions 2.5SE.10.
16 September Regions 1.4.6.10.

28. Shortage of razor blades

26 August Regions 4.10.
2 September Regions 4.5SE.6.
9 September Regions 2.4.5.
16 September Regions 4.10.

The following subjects, included in this list last month. are now omitted, as there have been fewer than nine references to them during the pst month: (i) Inadequacy of Old Age Pensions [Text missing] coal (iv) Conditional sales to the public (v) Shortage and queues for cakes.

REFERENCES

1. Northern Region (Newcastle) Weekly Reports from R.I.Os
2. North Eastern Region (Leeds)
3. North Midland Region (Nottingham)
4. Eastern Region (Cambridge)
5. London Region (London)
5SE. South Eastern District Office, London Region (Tunbridge Wells)
6. Southern Region (Reading)
7. South Western Region (Bristol)
8. Wales (Cardiff)
9. Midland (Birmingham)
10. North Western Region (Manchester)
11. Scotland (Edinburgh)
12. See 5SE.
13. Northern Ireland (Belfast)
14. Special Reports from R.I.Os.
15. Regions Adviser's Reports
16. M.O.I. Speakers'- Reports
17. Postal Censorship
18. Police Duty Room Reports
19. Wartime Social Survey Reports
20. B.B.C. Listener Research Papers
21. B.B.C. Special Papers
22. Scottish Unionist Whips' Reports
23. Liberal Party's Reports
24. Primary Sources

We use cookies to track usage and preferences.

Privacy & Cookie Policy Accept & Close