A History of the Ministry of Information, 1939-46

332

SECRET
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
Copy No. 275

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.

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 the 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.

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MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
SECRET

No. 130 1st April, 1943

(Covering period 23rd to 30th March, 1943)

I. GENERAL COMMENTS

1. General state of confidence and reaction to news

There has been a fluctuation of mood in the course of the past week. During the earlier part, there was a feeling of disappointment as a result of the set-back in Southern Tunisia. But “the exhilarating capture of the Mareth Line and the devastating air raids on enemy territory, particularly on Berlin”, have “set the public mood on the upgrade again; but sober confidence rather than wild optimism expresses the prevailing tone”.

There has been much less comment on Russia than for some time past, though some anxiety and disappointment continue.

Reports of strain or war weariness come from six Regions. In the main the fatigue seems to be physical, though contributory factors are said to be:

  1. The growing belief that the war will now last longer than was expected (Six Regions). “Some think another three years, an extreme view being six or seven.”

  2. “Fear that the post-war world may be worse than the wartime one.” This seems due both to “disappointment caused by the Government's attitude to social problems”, and to “anxiety about the future of international politics”.

The “biggest problem” on the Home Front is now said to be clothes rationing, and people's increasing difficulty in managing on their coupons, now that their pre-rationing stocks are getting worn out.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 14 London, North Western Regions, 21 four provincial P.Cs.)

2. North Africa

During the earlier part of the week, the chief reactions were (a) disappointment at our set-backs and slow progress, and (b) criticism of “over-optimistic forecasts” by the generals on the spot, the news services and the press.

“News of the taking of the Mareth Line has, however, washed from people's minds many of the doubts and disappointments.” There is a good deal of elation, and many feel that “this is the beginning of the end in North Africa” and that “we have reached the hard core of German resistance”. Some “wonder whether it will be a German Dunkirk and whether Rommel has enough ships to evacuate his troops”. Many, on the other hand, “reserve judgement”; the more cautious believe “Rommel is not finished yet” and that “the Axis armies still have plenty of fight in them”.

All agree, however, in their admiration for the Eighth Army and the British generals. “The brilliant and daring strategy - particularly the outflanking move towards El Hamma - are specially praised.” Maps are being eagerly studied and “amateur strategists” are speculating on the next moves - not only in Tunisia but on the continent of Europe, as many believe that the clearing of Tunisia is a preliminary step to invasion.

U.S. troops : “The progress of the Americans in the centre has been followed with great interest”; and “admiring comments” and increased confidence in “the quality of both U.S. soldiering and leadership” have been reported (Three Regions).

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 14 London, North Western Regions, 21 two provincial P.Cs.)

3. The Prime Minister's speech (21st March)

Reactions to the Prime Minister's speech continue to be most varied. In the main, it has been “well-received”, and even among those critical of the contents “Mr. Churchill's stock is said to be higher than ever”. The most extreme satisfaction is reported from Wales, where a majority appear to have regarded it as the Prime Minister's greatest speech. In Scotland, on the other hand, it has been “less discussed than any of his previous broadcasts”, and disappointment that it was not one of his usual war reviews has been most marked.

As reported last week, opinion seems to be divided between a majority who welcomed the speech, and an appreciable minority who were critical of all, or part of it.

Favourable comment : Satisfaction is expressed for the following reasons:

  1. “The amazingly comprehensive survey of post-war problems, and the Government's intentions when the time is ripe” (Eight Regions and Postal Censorship). “It is encouraging to know that the Prime Minister has his eyes on post-war matters as well as the war” ... “It's clear the Government don't intend to make the some mistakes after this war as they did in 1918.”

  2. The “most decided jolt” given to those who believed the war was nearly over (Six Regions and Postal Censorship). The warning that “we have a hard struggle ahead and must not expect an early victory”, is said to have been “well-timed” and to have “settled some people's minds about the fallacy of an early victory”.

  3. “The Prime Minister's view that national security must precede social security” (Five Regions and Postal Censorship). The speech showed post-war planning “in its proper perspective”.... “People appreciate the difficulties which surround Mr. Churchill's position, and are prepared to be patient”.... “We should not squabble about post-war plans before we've won the war”.

  4. “He put the Government critics in their place” (Four Regions) Though both sides profess to see their opponents as the Prime Minister's special target, this reaction appears to be strongest among people with “right wing views”; they believe that the speech was designed to “forestall the Labour Party, who are doing everything they can to set out their stall before the end of the war”, and are “gloating over the sound trouncing that left-wingers have been asking for”.

  5. “The Four Year Plan appealed to people's imagination” (Four Regions) and is regarded as “the skeleton framework round which post-war reconstruction plans can be fitted”.

  6. “Relief that a vigorous agricultural policy is to be planned” (Three Regions).

  7. Satisfaction at the Prime Minister's references to partial demobilisation “when Hitler is finished” (Two Regions).

Unfavourable comment : Critics of the speech are reported to be disappointed for the following reasons:-

  1. “People looked for more concrete evidence of the Government's intentions for post-war reconstruction” (Nine Regions and Postal Censorship). Opinions appear to have varied from “uneasy feelings” that the speech “might just be putting post-war reconstruction and social security into the background”, to “disillusionment” among some factory workers because “the Beveridge Plan has been killed, and the Prime Minister has promised nothing”.

  2. “He didn't give the people what they expected and desired - namely a resounding account of the war” (Eight Regions and Postal Censorship). Many people were “surprised at the choice of subject”, and disappointed at “the brief references to the present situation”, when they were expecting “a promise or even an announcement of a second front”. In their disappointment some listeners, particularly working-class people, “lost interest in the speech”; they complained that it “was too long”, and that “one needed a secondary school education to understand what it was all about”; and many of them “didn't listen all the way through”.

  3. “Criticism comes from the extreme Right and the extreme Left” (Five Regions). The “political implications” appear to have dissatisfied both extremes. The “Right” fears “far-reaching proposals which it could not accept”, while the “Left” visualises “the possibility of little being done” ... “A first-class Tory speech; he says a lot and promises nothing”.

  4. The length of the war . “Some apprehension and despondency” is said to have been caused at the prospect of the war “dragging on till 1944, '45 or even '46” (Two Regions).

A good deal of speculation is also reported about:

  1. Mr. Churchill's own position in post-war politics . While some people thought that his speech was “an electioneering speech” made for “political propaganda purposes”, others believed “that he was speaking with an eye to the future, and was really making a bid for a national party free from all partisan bias”. One report referred to “some interest shown in the presumption that he will remain at the head of affairs after the war” (Six Regions).

  2. A Coalition Government in the post-war period . “While many people are sick of party polities”, they are “not so sure that they want to see a Coalition Government in peace”; and “left-wingers” fear how “the best brains of all parties” may be interpreted (Four Regions).

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 21 thirteen provincial P.Cs. 22 fifty-five P.D.Rs.)

4. The Beveridge Report and the post-war world

The Beveridge Report and post-war policy continue to be widely discussed. To those “haunted by fears of post-war unemployment” - still “the central problem” of wage-earners' post-war discussions - the “vision of security from want”, conjured up by the scheme, is particularly welcome. The Government continues to be criticised for its “handling of the scheme”.

Minority views on the Report and on post-war policy continue along familiar lines - the plan is “too Utopian”, and there is “no immediate urgency about post-war problems”. Some resentment is expressed because it is said that the Report is being used as “political propaganda by left-wingers and Labour organisations”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 8. 10. 21 thirteen provincial P.Cs. 22 fifty-five P.D.Rs.)

5. The second front

Public comment continues on the same lines as were reported last week, and falls into the same two categories:

  1. The wish for a second front to help Russia continues to be widespread, stimulated by recent Russian withdrawals; but “the majority are anxious that the Government should not be rushed - ‘they know the time and place better than we do’”. A minority, in fact, say that “we are already doing all that we ought to help Russia by sending big supplies and by fighting on several fronts”. Talk of a second front has been “less prominent while the activities of the Eighth Army have been in the news”, and there is a general realisation that it will be “no walk-over”, and will entail a “grievous loss of life”.

  2. Anticipation of a European offensive also continues. “All sorts of significant things are being hinted at by soldiers, sailors and work people - it can't be long now.” At the same time, some people are now beginning to push their date on to the late summer.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 seven provincial P.Cs.)

6. Russia

Comment has much declined. Only “Russia's warmest admirers show no slackening of interest”. Disappointment over recent setbacks continues and a minority wonder “how much more Russia can stand”, but people do not seem to be “unduly perturbed”. The popular view is said to be: “The Russians advance in the winter, the Germans in the summer”, and “there is no expectation of a further major Russian offensive for some time” - though many hope that they may retake Smolensk.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 seven provincial P.Cs.)

7. The “United” Nations

The feeling that relations between the Allies are “not as good as they should be” continues to be reported in one form or another from nine Regions. People are anxious because they believe that “grave differences” exist between the U.S. and Great Britain on the one hand and Russia on the other. Much speculation - some of it uneasy - is also reported about Russia's post-war role. Russia's “inscrutability does more than anything to arouse suspicion”, and “it's about time Stalin spoke on his post-war aspirations”.

At the same time, it is felt that the breach between Russia and the U.S. is greater than that between Russia and ourselves.

To a far smaller degree, people are concerned about (a) the extent of our help to China, and (b) the Anglo-American attitude to General de Gaulle. It is suspected that the United Nations favour the “authoritarian Giraud” rather than the “unorthodox de Gaulle”.

(1. 3. 4. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11. 13. 21 two provincial P.Cs.)

8. Mr. Eden's visit to U.S.

The visit has aroused little interest, though approval is expressed for Mr. Eden's speeches in America, and he is thought to be “just the man for the job”. Some uncertainty exists as to “what his visit is meant to achieve”, but it is hoped that it will lead to “improved relations between U.S., Russia and ourselves”. His references to “further help to China” have met with approval.

(4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 22 two P.D.Rs.)

9. Allied air offensive

Our recent heavy air attacks on enemy territory are widely commented on. There is “grim satisfaction” over the Berlin raids - “We're hitting him where he feels it most”. It is hoped that our attacks “will further increase in weight and efficiency”. Pictures showing the damage would be welcome.

The desire for the bombing of Rome is mentioned in two reports, and the news that a plane had flown over Rome was “received with delight”. It is still rumoured that “the Pope has some influence which prevents our bombing Rome”.

There is some comment on the small loss of Fortresses on the occasion when 50 fighters were shot down; admiration is mixed with some scepticism at the American figures, “but if they are true, then our planes ought to have ½ inch guns like theirs”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 9. 10. 11. 21 five provincial P.Cs.)

10. Raids on this country

It is generally expected that there will be reprisal raids on London after our two raids on Berlin - though only on a small scale. The general reaction of Londoners is said to be “philosophical” - “a shrug of the shoulders, and we'll take what's coming”. Reference is made to “people making minor preparations against a blitz before going to bed on recent nights”, but only a small section of Londoners are described as “windy as the dickens”.

Widespread heavy raiding is not expected, though the belief that, when desperate, Hitler will “let loose on us with all he's got” - including gas - continues to be reported (Three Regions).

The raid on Southern Scotland and North East England (24-25th March), when, “after a lull lasting many months, the sirens sounded over most of Scotland” and also in Belfast, is referred to in reports from Scotland and Northern Ireland.

In Scotland , “the public remained, on the whole, calm: most people made some move; private shelters were used everywhere and, in some places, public shelters also. The Civil Defence services worked well, though many fire-watchers were ignorant of their work and would have welcomed leadership. A feeling of added security was given by Ack-Ack guns and night fighters in action; everyone was thrilled when 8 out of 25 raiders were brought down, and public confidence has been much increased thereby”.

In Northern Ireland the alert lasted only half an hour, and no enemy planes appeared, but “in West Belfast - an area badly blitzed two years ago - some thousands of people left their homes and trekked towards the hills. A relatively small number used the shelters” and complaints have been made that “a number of shelters in that part of Belfast were locked” and people could not get in. There has been a revival of criticism of the removal of the balloon barrage from Belfast.

The Tube shelter accident : According to a special Postal Censorship report on Home Opinion, “out of 197 comments noted on the accident, many merely express sympathy - ‘it is tragic to think of the large number of poor women and children who lost their lives’ - and do not discuss the cause or attach any blame. Very few blame the A.R.P. authorities: on the contrary, the majority ‘think it's very unfair of people to blame the Authorities, when the whole trouble started with panic’”.

(2. 4. 5. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 Special P.C. 32.)

11. The war at sea

Increased anxiety about the shipping situation is reported from nine Regions. People are said to be “disturbed and uneasy” about the submarine warfare, and there is a desire for more information about our shipping losses “as a counter to German allegations” and “to clear up statements made by various spokesmen”. Lord Winster's remarks are said to have added to the uneasiness, and Mr. Hudson's speech at Cambridge (20th March) on the seriousness of the situation impressed the farmers.

The “lack of denial or confirmation of German claims that thirty-two ships, totalling 204,000 tons, were sunk in the Atlantic last week” is deplored, and it is thought that more people are listening to enemy propaganda and “imbibing a certain amount of poison”. Stories told by survivors from torpedoed ships on their arrival home have added to the anxiety.

One Regional report mentions some support for the view that “smaller and faster craft should be built so that submarines may be more easily evaded”.

There is said to be a “welcome for stories of the work of our small naval craft along enemy coasts”.... “There is something about them which makes an immediate appeal.”

(1. 2. 3. 4. 7. 8. 10. 11. 21 one provincial P.C.)

12. Hitler's speech

Doubt that it really was Hitler who spoke continues to be very widely expressed, but his speech is praised for having “swept away all doubts as to who was winning the war”.

Two reports mention criticism of the B.B.C's handling of the speech, on the grounds that “in guying Hitler, there is a danger of underestimating his power”.

(1. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 8. 21 seven provincial P.Cs.)

13. Miss Eleanor Rathbone and Mr. Aneurin Bevan

Miss Rathbone's “spirited support of the Prime Minister against personal attacks” has been greatly welcomed, and a frequent remark is: “Good for Eleanor!”

(2. 9. 10)

14. Lieutenant-Colonel Gates

Although “Hi-de-hi” is now “a topical joke” in factories, offices, schools, and even prison, indignation continues to be reported that “a person with his record should find a place in the War Office” - which “some regard as a cushy job”.

(2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 22 four P.D.Rs. 32.)

15. The Catering Bill

Little comment is reported, but all of it is approving. People are said to be puzzled by the vigour of Conservative opposition to the Bill, “particularly as it had Mr. Churchill's blessing”, and to “identify ‘the Hacking crowd’ with the forces of reaction who will give up nothing without a fight”. Some feel that “our people should be employed in the industry, rather than cheap Italians”. The Wales report mentions the belief that “if records could be kept, a very large percentage of girls who go wrong would be found to belong to the low paid tipping grades”.

(3. 8. 9. 10)

16. Broadcasting and presentation of news

The only aspect of news presentation to have aroused much comment has been the news from Tunisia. Criticism is reported from four Regions at “repetition of the old fault of too much boasting at the start” and “over-optimism which may not be justified by events”. There seems, however, to be some feeling that the generals on the spot were partly responsible.

Alexander Werth's Russian commentaries are highly praised (Three Regions), and are said to be “widely quoted in the factories”.

War Commentaries are said to be popular, particularly those of Major Hastings and Godfrey Talbot.

The shortage of newspapers , particularly those “of a good type”, is deplored in two reports: it is said to be due to a recent cut in newsprint.

“Desert Victory” continues to be enthusiastically praised (Five Regions), especially for “showing what we are up against in North Africa”. It is thought that some way ought to be found “so that even those who avoid war films would see it willy-nilly”. A few soldiers “think it rather strong meat for civilians”, and “women in Aberdeen are said to have fainted during some of the scenes”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13.)

II. SPECIAL COMMENTS

17. Industry

Criticism of the transfer of labour, enforced idleness and the effects of long working hours is referred to again this week; and there is fresh criticism of strike action, and of the low pay of skilled workers:

  1. Enforced idleness (Seven Regions). Engineering and shipyard workers are specifically mentioned.

  2. The transfer of labour (Six Regions). There is criticism of:

    1. The transfer of women workers from Monmouthshire to English factories.

    2. Girls being placed in unsuitable jobs which are less useful than their previous work.

  3. Strikes (Four Regions). There is said to be “little sympathy for those war workers and organisations that put self interest first” - “the Government ought to use its powers to stop it”.

  4. Low pay of skilled workers (Three Regions). Dissatisfaction is reported among craftsmen and skilled workers, particularly engineers affected by the recent award, at their position vis-a-vis semi-skilled and unskilled workers. It is said they often earn less than these, yet are prevented by the Essential Work Order from moving to less skilled work.

  5. Long working hours (Three Regions). These are said to be having a harmful effect, particularly on women and young workers. The added strain of Civil Defence and Home Guard duties is mentioned.

Aircraft production (Four Regions): The recent additional measures of control enforced by the Ministry of Aircraft Production are stated to have met with approval, but not to have aroused widespread comment. In Northern Ireland, there is speculation about the fate of Short and Harland's.

(1. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 two provincial P.Cs.)

18. The Call-up

Comment is on familiar lines: (i) Too many young men and women who have not been called up (Four Regions); (ii) Complaint of the youth of Employment Exchange interviewers (Three Regions), of “their want of discrimination in fitting qualified older transferred workers into suitable jobs and of the use of domestic work as a threat”; (iii) Young people being placed in unsuitable work (Three Regions).... “14 year olds take up jobs for which they are unsuited, and then find themselves unable to change because of the Essential Work Order”; (iv) The hardship caused by call-up of married women (Three Regions), particularly of those with children; (v) Idle wives of servicemen (Two Regions) - but one Region reports sympathy for wives whose husbands are abroad or missing, who are directed into war work.

Need of domestic help (Five Regions): The inability to secure domestic help is said to result in increasing difficulties, particularly for old people living alone, young mothers with several children, and persons who are ill.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11. 21 one provincial P.O.)

19. Clothing

Coupons : Though some people react to the threatened reduction in coupons by saying “we have just got to be content to look shabbier”, complaints of coupon difficulties come from eleven Regions this week, and are thought to be increasing. The need for a separate household allowance is “stressed again and again”. Among working-class people, who had no pre-war stocks, the difficulties of replacing working suits, children's clothes, etc. are very great, particularly in view of the poor wearing quality of new clothes. It is thought that in the event of a reduction in the number of coupons, the quality of clothing should be more lasting, and poorer goods should be rated at a lower coupon value.

Utility stockings : Complaints of quality come from four Regions, and it is suggested that “it is time utility goods were marked with a serial number so that faulty articles can be checked”. It is said that older people are unable to get the thicker type of stocking they require.

Men's suits : Two reports again refer to turn-ups on trousers. It is suggested that “the Government should give way on this point”. Men's utility suits are said to be “thoroughly disliked” in the North Midland Region.

Shoe repairs : The problem of getting shoes, particularly children's repaired, is “felt to be acute”. Difficulties of cobblers in obtaining leather and rubber substitute are causing alarm, as “more parents feel they'll soon be unable to send their children to school”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 21 three provincial P.Cs. 22 six P.D.Rs. 32.)

20. Health

Concern at the general low state of health of the public continues to be expressed. Tiredness, anaemia, general debility, and slow recovery after mild illnesses are said to be prevalent, but in one Region the coming of Spring is reported to be having a cheering effect. Sir Wilson Jameson's statement on the good health of the nation is described as “very irritating”, as it is said “everyone knows that the health of the nation is not half so good as they say”.

Venereal Disease Campaign : Approval of the Campaign is again reported, and it is hoped that its scope will be extended. The latest advertisement is commented on as an improvement - “much more readable and human”. It is thought that there is little use in stressing the moral side, but that people's fear of the consequences should be played on. More stress is considered necessary on possible cures, as it is said that many sufferers will try “quack” remedies rather than “face up” to a doctor or clinic. In this connection, people are said to fear being seen going to a clinic. “In some places the treatment of the disease is considered as a suitable topic for humour and facetiousness. Cases have been quoted of girls collecting about a hospital on the days when men receive such treatment, to take note (for purposes of making fun) of the men concerned.” It is also reported that when building repairs were necessary at a clinic, difficulty was experienced in getting workmen to do the work, as they refused to be seen entering the building, even when carrying their tools. Generally speaking, hospital clinics rather than ad hoc clinics appear to be preferred.

Maternity problems : The lack of provision for maternity cases again reported. The inadequacy of municipal hospitals to meet the demand, the scarcity of private nurses and the exorbitant charges of private nursing homes are commented on. It is pointed out that many servicemen's wives cannot be confined in lodgings.

Anti-vivisection posters : There is a “plague” of these posters at Oxford and Reading, attacking diphtheria immunisation. They are thought to be “deliberately misleading, by quoting a statement by the Minister of Health out of its context”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 17. 32.)

21. Food

Satisfaction with the food situation continues and gratitude both to Lord Woolton and the Merchant Navy is expressed.

There are, however, complaints of:

  1. The shortage and bad distribution of

    1. Fish : Complaints of under-the-counter sales and the unfair advantage accorded to those who order by telephone continue.

    2. Milk : The rationalisation of milk deliveries still produces complaints. It is thought that small milkmen are being victimised to the benefit of the Co-operative Societies who, it is said, are the worst offenders in the matter of unfair and unequal distribution of milk.

    3. Sweets : Complaints of insufficient supplies of sweets, especially those of good quality, are reported. It is hoped that the zoning scheme will work well.

    4. Cakes : Queues for cakes are said to prevent working women from getting any. It is suggested that they should be included in the points rationing scheme.

    5. Offals : Housewives are said to be growing disgruntled at the increase in queueing for offals and women workers are said to be prevented from getting them.

  2. The high price of vegetables is again criticised. It is rumoured in one Region that “since high prices are limiting the demand for cabbages they are being ploughed in”.

  3. Ill-health is again attributed to the war-time diet. Boils, skin troubles, wind, and other minor ills are said to be caused by National Bread, lack of fruit and “too much stodgy food”.

Sugar for Jam : Satisfaction and delight are reported from three Regions that sugar may be taken instead of preserves during the next three months, by people who grow their own fruit and wish to make jam. Some disappointment is, however, reported that there is not going to be any extra sugar.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 17. 21 fifteen provincial P.Cs. 32.)

22. “Wings for Victory” weeks

Approval for “Wings for Victory” weeks is said to be modified by the belief that:

  1. “The whole thing is a waste, as the figures don't mean anything” and “the large sums collected are really only a transfer of lump sums by companies, insurance concerns, etc., and that the genuine small saver's contribution is negligible”.

  2. “No amount of money collected in this way will increase output”.

  3. They involve “waste of paper in posters and petrol in aircraft flying over cities”.

  4. “The country's gratitude to the airmen should be shown first in another way, - in seeing that adequate provision is made for these airmen and their dependants in the event of disability or death”.

(4. 10. 21 one provincial P.C.)

23. Fuel economy

The national saving in fuel is again attributed to the mild weather as much as to people's efforts. It is felt that, stern publicity is needed now, as some people having got through the winter successfully, are becoming lax. In one Region it is felt that, irritating as some of the constant appeals to save have been, people have now accepted fuel economy and it has become a habit.

The poor quality of coal is again criticised, and complaints of uneven and irregular coal supplies are reported. It is said in Wales that “according to Commander King-Hall the system adopted is voluntary fuel saving - here it is very much compulsory as people often have to beg the local coal merchant to deliver regularly”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 7. 8. 10. 21 three provincial P.Cs.)

24. Agriculture

The Prime Minister's reference in his broadcast speech (21st March) to the future of country life has given pleasure, but it is pointed out that “willingness to engage in agriculture after the war will depend as much on housing, sanitation, and the health services, as on wages and the cinema”. There is again mention of the small number of new houses allocated to each district, and some dismay reported at the specification of the cottages, especially the idea of concrete upstairs floors.

Farmers in Scotland are said to be “well ahead with their spring work” but “their wives complain bitterly of the lack of household help”.

A report from Wales stresses the need for an implement pool in every district “which could only be established if sponsored (not financially) by the Ministry of Agriculture”.

Women's Land Army : In the North Midland Region there are rumours of “farmers breaking faith” in respect of the payment of county rates to which they have agreed. It is said that the Land Army has no power to enforce this payment. Complaints of girls sent to verminous “digs” not previously inspected are made in the Midland Region. In Scotland, women's rural institutes are reported to be showing great interest in the members of the Land Army and Timber Corps.

(3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 11)

25. The transport of flowers

The removal of the ban has met with general approval in the Region most affected (the South Western), and there is pleasure elsewhere at the sight of “plentiful and reasonably-priced spring flowers”. There is, however, some “bewilderment that the Government should pursue a firm policy for a short time and then change its mind completely”.

(4. 5. 7)

26. Rumours

Following the recent manoeuvres in Southern England, there have been widespread rumours of large numbers of casualties, the highest figures mentioned being 170 killed 3000 injured. There are stories of soldiers and small motorcars being crushed by tanks, and of a column of lorries piling up on top of one which broke down. In the areas concerned it was commonly thought that the manoeuvres were leading up to continental invasion. When they did not do so, there were rumours that the invasion had been called off at the last moment.

(2. 3. 5. 32.)

III. MONTHLY SUMMARY OF CONSTANT TOPICS NO. 8

(Covering the period from 2nd March to 30th March 1943)

All new 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.

(The following subjects, included in this list last month, are now omitted, as references to them have considerably decreased: (i) Compulsory fire-watching for women (ii) Rationing difficulties of small families and people living alone (iii) Disparity in pay (iv) High pay of juveniles (v) Inadequacy of Servicemen's pay and dependants' allowances and pensions).

Inadequacy of clothing coupons and demand for household coupons

11 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 9. 10. 12.
18 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
25 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 9. 10.
1 April Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

Transport difficulties

11 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 8. 10. 12. 13.
18 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 8. 10.
1 April Regions 2. 3. 5. 7. 8. 10.

Shopping difficulties and food queues

11 March Regions 1. 2. 5. 8. 10. 11.
18 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 6. 9. 10. 12.
25 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 6. 10. 12.
1 April Regions 1. 3. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11.

Anti-Semitism

11 March Regions 3. 4. 5. 8. 10. 11.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 3. 4. 5. 10. 12.
1 April Regions 2. 3. 4. 5. 10.

Shortage of domestic help

11 March Regions 1. 3. 8. 9. 10. 12.
18 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 1. 10.
1 April Regions 2. 4. 8. 10. 11.

Preferential treatment of certain customers by shopkeepers

11 March Regions 3. 5. 6. 13.
18 March Regions 3. 5. 6. 8. 9. 10.
25 March Regions 4. 10. 12.
1 April Regions 1. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7. 10.

Waste of petrol

11 March Regions 1. 3. 5. 10.
18 March Regions 3. 6. 8. 10. 11.
25 March Regions 4. 5. 6. 7. 10. 13.
1 April Regions 3. 5. 7. 9. 10.

Inadequate collection of salvage

11 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 11. 13.
18 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 7.
25 March Regions 3. 8.
1 April Regions 2. 3. 4. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Unequal distribution of milk

11 March Regions 1. 2. 5. 10.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 7. 8. 10.
25 March Regions 1. 5. 10.
1 April Regions 1. 2. 7. 8.

Too many young men in civilian jobs and evading the call-up

11 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 6. 10.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 7. 9. 12.
25 March Regions 3. 6. 10.
1 April Regions 2. 3. 5. 10.

Bad behaviour of young people

11 March Regions 2. 3. 4. 10. 11.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 10. 11.
25 March Regions 3. 5. 10.
1 April Regions 1. 4. 7. 10.

Too many young women in civilian jobs and evading the call-up

11 March Regions 1. 5. 6.
18 March Regions 7. 8. 11.
25 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 12.
1 April Regions 3. 5. 10.

Delay in mails to and from Forces serving abroad

11 March Regions 10. 11.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 4. 5. 10.
1 April Regions 4. 10.

Unfair treatment of the small business and anxiety for the future

11 March Regions 3.
18 March Regions 3. 7. 8.
25 March Regions 10.
1 April Regions 1. 2. 7. 8.

SHORTAGES

Shortage of fish

11 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 8. 10. 12.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 6. 8. 9. 10.
25 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 10. 12.
1 April Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 10. 11.

Shortage of torch batteries

11 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 8. 9.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 7. 9. 10.
25 March Regions 2. 4. 10.
1 April Regions 4. 8. 10.

Shortage and poor quality of adults' clothing and footwear

11 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
18 March Regions 3. 5. 6. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 2. 3. 5. 7.
1 April Regions 2. 3. 5.

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

11 March Regions 3. 5. 10.
18 March Regions 3. 5. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 2. 3. 4. 5. 10.
1 April Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 10.

Shortage of cycle lamp batteries

11 March Regions 3. 4. 6. 9.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 2. 4. 10.
1 April Regions 4. 10.

Shortage and poor quality of children's clothing and footwear

11 March Regions 2. 3. 5. 9.
18 March Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 7.
25 March Regions 3. 10.
1 April Regions 2. 3. 9.

Shortage and high price of crockery, glass and kitchenware

11 March Regions 3. 5. 10.
18 March Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 10.
25 March Regions 1. 4.
1 April Regions 1. 2. 5. 10.

Shortage of razor blades

11 March Regions 1. 3. 5. 10.
18 March Regions 4. 5. 10.
25 March Regions 4.
1 April Regions 3. 4. 5. 6. 10.

Bad distribution and poor quality of coal

11 March Regions 1. 3. 7. 10.
18 March Regions 1. 7. 10.
25 March Regions 2. 4. 10.
1 April Regions 3. 8. 10.
333

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)
6. Southern Region (Reading)
7. South Western Region (Bristol)
8. Wales (Cardiff)
9. Midland (Birmingham)
10. North Western Region (Manchester)
11. Scotland (Edinburgh)
12. South Eastern Region (Tunbridge Wells)
13. Northern Ireland (Belfast)
14. Special Reports from R.I.Os.
15. Regions Adviser's Reports
16. M.O.I. Speakers' Reports
17. Local Information Committees' Reports
18. Home Press Summaries M.O.I.
19. Regional Press Summaries
20. Hansard
21. Postal Censorship
22. Police Duty Room Reports
23. Wartime Social Survey Reports
24. B.B.C. Listener Research Papers
25. B.B.C. Special Papers
26. Citizens' Advice Bureaux Reports
27. W.V.S. Reports
28. Scottish Unionist Whips' Reports
29. Liberal Party's Reports
30. Economic League's Reports
31. War Office Post Bag Summaries
32. Primary Sources

D 34653-1 6,000 1/43 R P W

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