A History of the Ministry of Information, 1939-46

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MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
SECRET

No. 174, 3rd February, 1944

(Covering period from 25th January to 1st February, 1944)

I. GENERAL COMMENTS

1. General

There has been little change in spirits since last week.

The raids on Berlin, and Russian advances, especially near Leningrad, continue to give great satisfaction.

The landings at Nettuno are no longer the main topic they were last week.

Expectation of European invasion is still widespread; speculation has declined a little; fear of casualties continues.

The statement on Japanese atrocities has caused general shock and horror.

The Russo-Polish dispute still causes anxiety.

On the Home Front the removal of the austerity regulations for men's suits has been widely discussed. The fuel position and the call-up of the “Bevin boys”, clothing difficulties, postwar prospects, housing, and agricultural prices remain the main topics otherwise. Tiredness and war weariness persist.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17 passim)

2. Mr. Eden's statement on Japanese atrocities

General horror and anger have greeted the statement; relatives and friends are deeply distressed and concerned. People want revenge and the punishment of those responsible (Seven Regions).

There is some bewilderment, and - in view of the distress bound to be caused to relatives - some criticism that the declaration should have been made now, when nothing can be done to aid the men. The statement is thought unlikely to have much effect on the Japanese, and some even fear it will make things worse for the men.

Reasons suggested for the news being released now are:

  1. To help America “ginger up” her people (Three Regions).

  2. To make Britain realise Japan cannot just be left to the Americans (Two Regions).

  3. An indirect reminder to Russia that America and Britain have the Japanese war on their hands (One Region).

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

3. Italy

Satisfaction with the landings south of Rome continues, though there is some disappointment because the advances were not as rapid as people expected and the press suggested ... “We spend a whole week, without opposition, on a narrow strip of ground apparently waiting for the enemy to gather round”. Despite this, it is anticipated that Rome will soon fall.

There is renewed hope for swifter progress that will end the deadlock further South; and interest in the whole campaign has been revived.

People are gratified that the landings were kept a secret and hoodwinked the Germans. There is praise for the smart work of General Alexander.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17. 18 passim)

3a. Bombing of the hospital ships off Anzio

Indignation. Some doubt the sense of continuing to observe rules which the enemy disregards. “Lighting only makes hospital ships a better target for enemy aeroplanes.” Others ask where our superior air force was.

(2. 3. 5. 7. 8. 13. 18 five P.D.Rs.)

4. Russia

Praise and admiration for the Red Army's progress continue widespread. There is some speculation about what is happening in the Ukraine.

People again point out that Anglo-American supplies must have played an important part in the campaigns and would like more publicity about this. There is criticism of the Soviet government's stressing enemy losses, in the absence of news of their own.

Russo-Polish relations continue to cause very general concern and fear. Opinion seems to be divided on exactly the same lines as last week, with the majority favouring Russia but a considerable minority taking Poland's side. There is increasing fear that present difficulties may point to “the shape of things to come”.

Katyn shootings : It is hoped the publication of the Soviet Commission's report may help to reconcile the two Governments; but some feel people would have been more satisfied if the International Red Cross had been present. Though most seem to think the report is true, a few have their doubts.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17 one Special, seven provincial P.Cs. 18 passim)

4a. Pravda's peace rumour

Much less comment this week, but some people are still puzzled, uncomfortable and critical of the Russians.

(1. 3. 4. 8. 18 forty-nine P.D.Rs.)

5. The second front

Comment is less, though still widespread. March is still the favourite guess, though some say Channel gales are too bad then.

Detailed rumours of suspicious happenings continue, though they are rather fewer than last week.

People are anxious to get the invasion started.

Small minorities still say it is “all bluff” (Four Regions); others think it may prove to be unnecessary.

The following expectations continue:

  1. Heavy raids, particularly on the south coast (Eight Regions). A few think German parachutists may be landed (Two Regions).

  2. Heavy casualties (Seven Regions).

  3. Dislocation of civilian transport and supplies, and evacuation of dangerous areas.

Some also wonder what part the Home Guard, Civil Defence and N.F.S. will play.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 9. 10. 11. 17 seven provincial P.Cs. 18 passim)

6. War in the air

Allied air offensive : There is reported to be:

(a) General satisfaction (all Regions) with the “terrific offensive of the last few days”, especially the close succession of night and day raids, and the repeated attacks on Berlin - though some are surprised that “only 40% of it is destroyed after such heavy raids”. Many would like the air offensive increased, if possible.

(b) Concern at our losses (Seven Regions), chiefly of men, but also of planes. Some think they are not too heavy for the results obtained; others ask if the result is worth the loss of so many of “the best men England can produce”.

A few wonder if rocket shells are more effective against our bombers than we admit.

(c) Speculation as to how long the Germans can stand such attacks (Four Regions).

(d) Sympathy among a minority for women and children (Three Regions).

(e) Uneasiness, from a small minority, at our bombing policy (Three Regions). A few believe that less care is now taken to avoid civilian casualties, and that we “are deliberately trying to wipe out enemy cities instead of concentrating merely on legitimate war targets” ... “A disgusting form of warfare.”

Raids on London are expected by many in retaliation for ours on Berlin; a few elderly people in crowded areas express a good deal of nervousness. It is said that after a heavy raid on Berlin, trains are crowded with people from the Orpington area in Kent, going to Chislehurst caves.

The raid of January 21/22 was the subject of exaggerated stories of “dreadful fires raging in dockland and throughout London”. Continued pleasure at the number of planes brought down.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17. 18 passim)

7. Mr. Churchill's return

Pleasure and relief continue.

(1. 3. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 10. 17 seven provincial P.Cs. 18 passim)

8. Spain

There is strong and increasing anti-Spanish feeling, with approval for the firmer line now being taken by the British and U.S. Governments and especially for America's suspension of oil supplies. Even sterner measures are advocated (Six Regions); some ask why we are “so weak with Franco”; they compare our attitude to “the appeasement policy of the past” ... “Let them keep the oranges.”

(1. 2. 3. 6. 8. 10. 11. 13. 18 twenty-nine P.D.Rs.)

9. Argentine

A little mild satisfaction at Argentine's break with the Axis (Three Regions), but some remain suspicious and are glad we are going to “judge her by her deeds and not only her words”.

(1. 2. 3. 8. 18 twenty-one P.D.Rs.)

10. Broadcasting and news presentation

There is a slight increase in comment this week. People complain of delay in releasing news already given out from enemy sources, and of dullness, repetition and padding. The European news service is still preferred by many.

General Forces Programme (Three Regions): People look forward with interest to the new programme, which they hope will result in better entertainment for the Forces.

George Formby's Postscript January 23 (Eight Regions) was widely appreciated. “The B.B.C. is to be congratulated on the best Postscript for a long time.”

Praise for : Good light music (Four Regions); Plays (Three Regions); Itma (Three Regions); Wickham Steed's broadcast, January 27 (Two Regions).

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

II. SPECIAL COMMENTS

MONTHLY REVIEW

11. Postwar

During the past four weeks , postwar problems have remained the main home front topic. Scepticism and anxiety predominate, apparently because of the lack of concrete Government plans; these are persistently demanded. People ask also about the fate of the various Committee Reports, and some blame “vested interests” for their being “shelved”.

Particular anxiety is felt about:

  1. Housing (Twelve Regions), now considered by a great many the most urgent problem of all. Particular anxiety is felt lest Service people and other young couples be unable to settle down quickly in their own homes. A number urge the necessity of improvements in rural housing and water supplies. Jerry-building continues to be feared.

  2. Employment (Nine Regions): Many regard with pessimism the prospect of getting a “decent job”. There is also much anxiety about the chances of re-employment for demobilised Servicemen. Difficulties are expected, too, in resettling women now on war work, whether in their homes or in other jobs.

  3. The reorganisation of industry and trade (Nine Regions), especially Britain's export trade, and the switch-over to peace-time production. Plans for the location of industry are wanted.

  4. Social security and the Beveridge Report (Eight Regions): People ask, of the latter: “Is it dead?” Some feel they could face other difficulties if they had the measure of security the Beveridge plan would afford.

  5. Government controls (Seven Regions): Business men and employers are said to hope that controls - which some term “Government interference” - will be removed as soon as possible (Four Regions). Some workers and “thinking” people, however, want modified control retained (Two Regions).

Northern Region : Both workers and managements are said to be convinced that after a short-lived boom there will be a slump and mass unemployment in the North East - “it will be worse than last time, there will be many more Jarrows”. They are particularly interested in the question of the location of industry, because they feel it is essential that new industries should be developed locally. Iron and steel workers on Teesside are worried that neither the Government nor their employers are attempting to bring their plant up-to-date; they say it is 30 years behind the times and contrast it with furnaces in the Midlands.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17)

11a. Postwar agriculture

During the past four weeks considerable anxiety and a desire for definite postwar plans were reported from farmers, farm workers and non-farming people.

Many farmers think they are going to be let down; Mr. Hudson's recent statement on prices is said to have encouraged this view. Poultry farmers are reported to be particularly anxious about their future.

Non-farming people want the farmers to be helped and encouraged in every way possible, to ensure that agriculture does not lapse into its pre-war state.

Farm workers are concerned about postwar wages and prospects; Land Girls, too, are anxious about their future.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 10)

11b The Education Bill

The second reading has caused little comment, though it is thought to have been well handled, and Mr. Butler to have “put up a good show”.

During the past four weeks widespread approval has much outweighed criticism, though interest is apparently much greater among the teaching profession and “progressive” people than with the general public.

There is, however, some fear that the Bill will not be put into operation within a reasonable time; the chief reason for doubt being fear that the shortage of teachers will make much of the Bill impractical. Moreover, a number think conditions, particularly pay, must be improved if the problem of recruitment is ever to be solved.

Criticism comes largely from the following:

(a) Roman Catholics (Six Regions), who are said to be in a “militant temper” about the financial proposals and to fear that unless some further alleviation is granted they will be unable to meet the necessary expenses of rebuilding, etc; it is said, also, that they object to the “Fascist doctrine” of teachers receiving their ideas from the County Council or Board of Education.

Non-Catholics are reported to be annoyed with the Roman Catholics' “uncompromising” attitude and to hope that no concessions will be granted them (Six Regions).

(b) Lower income groups , especially in rural areas, who object to the raising of the school leaving age (Six Regions). “Children at fourteen should stop learning and start earning.”

(c) A small minority who feel there will be too much state control at the expense of either parents, local authorities, or individual school tradition (Three Regions).

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

12. Housing and accommodation

During the past four weeks comment has remained strong, widespread and bitter. Chief complaints are of:

  1. Shortage of all types of accommodation (Twelve Regions) and consequent overcrowding, which is said to cause frayed nerves, sickness and bad feeling.

  2. “Fantastic” rents and prices for all types of accommodation, particularly for furnished lodgings (Six Regions).

  3. Repair difficulties (Five Regions).

  4. Accommodation requisitioned by the Government and the military in the early years of the war, but which has now been empty for many months without being released (Two Regions).

Those particularly hard hit by the housing situation are newly married couples - said to be “in despair” - and people with small children, to whom landlords often refuse to let.

People feel strongly that the matter is too urgent to be left till after the war and think that:

  1. The Government should “get on with the job” at once in both towns and rural areas. “Why aren't houses built instead of air raid shelters?” (Six Regions)

  2. Local Authorities should make fuller use of their requisitioning powers (Three Regions).

  3. Prices of houses should be controlled - “one of the worst examples of profiteering in the present war” (Three Regions).

See also Constant Topics No. 2

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17. 18 three P.D.Rs.)

13. Miners and mining

“The Bevin boys” : Opinion continues divided between:

  1. Sympathy . The majority feel the boys must be given “a square deal” - and that proper arrangements should have been made before the scheme was put into operation.

  2. Criticism . Some feel the boys are “already inoculated with the strike virus”, and will be difficult to keep in hand.

Press publicity (Five Regions) is again criticised, particularly in mining areas ... “Our own lads went into the pits at 14 without any of this nonsense.”

The impact of fresh minds (Two Regions) on an industry “where years of unemployment have led to inbred grievances” - will, it is thought, impress the miners' point of view on the public. They will better understand the injustices, the poor pay, the dangers and discomforts which miners suffer.

Wage increases : Reactions range from welcome to criticism - both for being too big and too small.

Miners criticise the award as not making sufficient difference between (a) unskilled and skilled workers, (b) surface and underground workers, and (c) the Bevin boys and “youngsters who have been in the industry all their lives”.

Other people are disappointed at the miners' dissatisfaction.

During the last four weeks comment has again been about:

(a) The ballot (Twelve Regions). Criticism of the scheme continues, chiefly because:

(i) It will produce little or no result in the near future. Many feel it would have been better to release all skilled miners from the Forces (Eleven Regions, most more than once).

In the North Eastern and South Western Regions, resentment is reported at stories of miners being drafted to the Forces even now, while inexperienced youths are conscripted for the mines.

(ii) The waste of enthusiasm, time and training of boys in pre-Service units (Nine Regions, several more than once).

(b) The coal situation generally (Twelve Regions). Anxiety continues, with a feeling that neither conscription nor wage increases will solve the problem. Remedies again suggested are the release of miners from the Forces, and nationalisation. A few think there is no solution.

(c) Strikes (Seven Regions) are deplored; sympathy with the miners is “wearing thin”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 17. 18 thirty-nine P.D.Rs.)

14. Domestic fuel

During the past four weeks comment has continued about the following:

The coal cut (Twelve Regions). It is felt to cause hardship to:

  1. People in rural areas with no gas or electricity - “particularly in wet weather when clothes have to be dried”.

  2. Households with small storage space; this includes people living in rooms or flats.

  3. Invalids, old people, and workers who work at home.

  4. Specially cold areas.

There is much thankfulness for the mild weather.

Poor quality of coal (Seven Regions).

Maldistribution of coal (Seven Regions). Some people advocate “proper” rationing.

Fuel saving (Six Regions). Many are said to be as careful as possible; they realise the needs of industry and the second front, and “anyway, few can afford to waste coal at present”. Some people, however, are felt not to link coal sufficiently with gas and electricity ... “We'll be all right with the coal cut, we've got the electric.”

Coke (Two Regions) cannot always be obtained, and it is thought poor propaganda to ask people to burn it.

Miners' allowances of coal (Two Regions) are resented. Even miners say they could do with less but will not forego their allocation for fear of creating a precedent with the owners.

See also Constant Topics, No. 16.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17. 18 twenty-three P.D.Rs.)

15. Agriculture

Little comment is reported on the debate in Parliament on farming prices. While some feel Mr. Hudson's statement was not well received in farming circles, a few of the public, including some farmers approved the Government's attitude and feel that the debate “cleared the air a little”. Some farmers question Mr. Hudson's figures and still maintain the Government has broken its pledge. Fear of the future, particularly for the small farmer, is thought to be part of the reason for the present dissatisfaction. Dairy farmers appreciate the increase in milk prices.

Sympathy with the farmers among the general public is rather less this week.

During the past four weeks the main topics have been:

Ploughing and cropping of land (Four Regions): Farmers complain of being required to plough and crop unsuitable land where, owing to climatic conditions, much of last year's harvest was wasted. They also feel that intensive ploughing and cropping will produce such conditions that it will take years to restore the land to heart.

Poultry farmers (Two Regions) feel their industry will suffer in the postwar period. They complain of the regulations and restrictions on poultry and egg production.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 18 thirteen P.D.Rs.)

16. Clothing

Removal of austerity restrictions : General satisfaction - particularly from men - that restrictions are to go. They are thought to have been economically a mistake in the first place (Eight Regions). Some feel that lifting the ban will make little difference in practice, however - “there were so many ways of getting round it”.

Tradespeople are worried about having stocks left on their hands (Five Regions) and at the loss of coupons entailed by the reduction from 26 to 20 (Two Regions). This reduction is thought unlikely, however, to tempt many people to accept Utility styles.

Women are asking for concessions too (Five Regions). Extra coupons for themselves and for household linen are suggested.

During the past four weeks there have been familiar complaints of:

The insufficiency of the coupon allowance (Twelve Regions), particularly for:

(a) General clothing (Twelve Regions). Those who had good stocks are finding them rapidly wearing out. Those who had none and could not afford good quality clothing are in a very bad position.

Particular mention is made of:

  1. The difficulties for men of managing on their coupons (Five Regions) particularly in view of the high coupon value of men's suits and shoes.

  2. Difficulties of replacing underwear (Three Regions). It is suggested that the coupon value of underclothing needs reducing.

(b) Renewing household goods (Twelve Regions). Housewives feel it is “adding insult to injury to be expected to buy household goods out of their coupons”.

(c) Children (Nine Regions). The coupon value of children's clothing and shoes is thought too high.

(d) Expectant mothers (Three Regions), especially for a first baby.

Footwear (Twelve Regions), particularly:

  1. Poor quality of footwear on sale (Twelve Regions), especially children's (Nine Regions). Again, it is said children's shoes are sometimes useless after a fortnight and are consequently a heavy drain on coupons.

  2. Shortage of footwear (Ten Regions), especially children's (Eight Regions). Complaints have, however, progressively declined during the month.

  3. Shoe Repairs (Nine Regions). The long time taken; poor quality; difficulty in getting them accepted by a repairer; and the high price.

  4. High price of footwear (Four Regions).

  5. Wooden-soled shoes (Four Regions), said to be unpopular chiefly because of their poor wearing qualities.

  6. Shortage of Wellingtons for children (Three Regions), especially in country districts.

  7. Shortage of rubber boots for farm workers (Three Regions).

  8. The quota system in shoe shops (Two Regions), which gives first choice to those “lacking in social responsibility”.

Poor quality clothing (Nine Regions), particularly Utility clothing (Nine Regions). Women's stockings (Six Regions) and corsets (Four Regions) are the chief source of complaint. Some praise for Utility clothing is, however, reported (One Region).

The shortage and high price of bedding (Eight Regions), particularly sheets.

Laundry difficulties (Five Regions). Delay in return of laundry, together with losses, are causing great inconvenience.

Extortionate prices of women's hats (Two Regions).

Supplementary coupons (Six Regions): Pleasure continues to be expressed by those who have received these (Six Regions); though it is still complained that even with them the allowance is insufficient (Five Regions), particularly for workers in heavy industries (Three Regions) and agriculture (Two Regions). There are also complaints from those not entitled to the allowance (Five Regions).

“Make Do and Mend” advertisements are praised (Two Regions).

See also Constant Topics, Nos. 1, 6, 8, 21, 22.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17 passim 18 thirty-nine P.D.Rs.)

17. Health

During the past four weeks there have been frequent comment and complaint of:

  1. War weariness, tiredness and nervous strain (Eleven Regions).

  2. Minor illnesses , and a feeling of being “run down” for some time afterwards (Seven Regions).

  3. After-effects of the flu epidemic (Five Regions). People are said not to be “picking up”.

Factors contributing are thought to be :

  1. War-time diet (Eight Regions); the National Loaf, the milk shortage, the small fat ration and lack of fresh fruit all being mentioned more than once.

  2. The shortage of doctors (Five Regions). Some feel that too many have been called up and panel patients are thought to be at a particular disadvantage when doctors are overworked.

  3. The lack of domestic help for people who are unfit or ill (Four Regions).

  4. Overwork and the long duration of the war (Three Regions). In one London factory a slight reduction of hours is said considerably to have reduced fatigue.

  5. Overcrowding and bad ventilation (Two Regions).

Hospital accommodation (Three Regions) is thought inadequate, especially for maternity cases.

Children and adolescents (Four Regions). Some think their health is good; others that they are listless and urge that the over 5's should have a share of oranges, cod liver oil, etc. Adolescents are thought to lack proteins in their diet.

It is said that the “oft repeated” Government statement that the nation's health is good is not believed (Four Regions).

See also Constant Topics, No. 4.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 17)

18. Domestic help

During the past four weeks the difficulties resulting from lack of domestic help have caused many complaints - fewer, however, than in the previous month. This decrease appears to be due to the abatement of the flu epidemic which had made the position particularly acute. It is complained that it is the rich, who can offer high wages, who get the servants.

Those now specially affected are:

  1. Sick people and invalids (Seven Regions).

  2. The old and elderly (Six Regions).

  3. Young mothers , and those with several young children (Four Regions). Reference is made to soldiers' wives who are ill and have little children with no one to look after them.

  4. Hospitals and institutions (Two Regions).

  5. People with large homes (Two Regions).

  6. Women who do a great deal of war work , whether paid or voluntary (Two Regions); as a result it is difficult to get helpers for local campaigns.

  7. Farmers' wives (One Region).

  8. Expectant mothers (One Region).

See also Constant Topics, No. 17.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 9. 10. 18 two P.D.Rs.)

19. Food

Butter ration (Five Regions): Concern is expressed at the suggested cut in the butter ration. People do not understand the reason for this in view of the improved shipping position; they also wonder if the total fat ration will be maintained. Heavy workers in the North Midland Region state that this must only apply to non-manual workers.

Oranges for Eire (Four Regions): Annoyance is reported at the alleged proposal to sell surplus Seville oranges to Eire. The subsequent announcement by the Ministry of Food has not mollified critics in Northern Ireland, who think the oranges ought not to have been offered to Eire in the beginning but kept for distribution in the United Kingdom.

During the past four weeks satisfaction has continued with the general food situation (Eight Regions, several more than once), especially considering we are in the fifth year of the war.

There have however been complaints of :

  1. The shortage and bad distribution of fish (Eleven Regions, several more than once). Complaints became widespread when it was announced that the meat ration might be cut and the deficiency would have to be made up with fish.

  2. Distribution of oranges (Eight Regions): These have been eagerly looked forward to and there has been disappointment at the delay in delivery. It is thought children over five should have priority, as those under five have orange juice as well. In some areas where oranges have been received, people are very pleased with the allocation; though in one part of the North Midland Region there are complaints of muddled distribution and of greengrocers keeping them under the counter.

  3. Difficulties of old people (Seven Regions): Old people are said to experience hardship, and it is thought food for them compares unfavourably with the concessions to children.

  4. Milk allowance (Six Regions): The meagre allowance of milk is complained of. It is thought to be especially hard on old people and those living alone.

  5. Distribution of shell eggs (Five Regions): There are complaints of the lack of availability of shell eggs, particularly for emergency card and priority customers.

  6. Difficulties of people living alone (Five Regions): It is thought there should be a special scale of food rationing for them.

  7. Quality of bread (Five Regions): Some people are said to waste bread more than ever before on account of its poor keeping quality. There are still some complaints that it is unappetising and causes indigestion.

  8. Shortage and distribution of fruit (Four Regions): Some have been unable to buy Canadian apples unless they could queue. It is felt that fruit should be marked on ration books. Annoyance is reported that ships are returning empty from abroad, as it is thought they should bring fruit.

  9. Shortage and high price of spirits (Four Regions): It is felt that the black market should be stopped and prices controlled. There is also some comment on the dubious quality of the alcohol sold. In Scotland feeling is stronger than ever among working men against the whisky ramp.

  10. Distribution of milk (Four Regions): Complaints of unequal and infrequent distribution are reported. People with members of the Forces home on leave are quite often unable to get milk for them.

  11. Rations for agricultural workers (Three Regions), considered inadequate, and the meat pie scheme a poor substitute for the British Restaurants and canteens available to town worker.

There is praise for :

  1. The decision to open British Restaurants in the evenings (Two Regions).

  2. National milk cocoa (Two Regions): In one factory, it is said that the majority “like it twice a day if they can get it”.

See also Constant Topics, Nos. 7, 9, 10, 13, 15, 20, 25, 26.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 17 fourteen provincial P.Cs. 18 thirty-nine P.D.Rs.)

20. Shopping difficulties

During the past four weeks complaints of shopping difficulties have been reported from eight Regions. The main difficulty is queuing for unrationed foodstuffs, especially fish and fruit; extended rationing is the solution most often suggested. Lunch hour and early closing are also complained of. It is thought that the lunch hour closing should not coincide with the lunch hours of workers. There is also complaint of butchers' and fish-mongers' shops which open “at their discretion”.

See also Constant Topics, No. 7.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 9. 10)

21. Transport

During the past four weeks transport has been the subject of increased comment.

The chief difficulties alleged are:

  1. Inadequate rural bus services (Seven Regions). Rural housewives' shopping difficulties are particularly mentioned. Some people do not understand why there cannot be an increase in public vehicles, “now that the battle of the Atlantic is easier”.

  2. Overcrowding (Seven Regions); sometimes to danger point - “often 80 in a 39 seater bus” - and specially in bad weather, when cyclists have to go by bus. Workers complain (Four Regions) of being crowded off by children, “idle women” and cinema-goers. The difficulties of those living and working between bus termini are particularly stressed, as the buses are often full up at intermediate stages.

  3. Long waits in queues (Five Regions), “a source of fatigue and irritation”, especially in wet weather.

  4. Unpunctuality of transport (Five Regions) - both trains and buses - and the number of hours wasted in consequence. Country buses are blamed for failing to connect with the train service. Delays caused by gas-producer driven buses breaking down are mentioned (Northern and Southern Regions).

  5. Inadequate Sunday bus services (Four Regions), “although many people are working and many troops travelling on Sundays”. Church-goers also complain.

  6. The bus curfew (Four Regions). Workers complain they cannot go to the cinema after work because the buses do not run late enough to get them home afterwards.

  7. Disobliging transport employees (Three Regions); uncivil conductresses, and drivers who drive past passengers waiting at stops.

  8. Lack of bus shelters (Three Regions).

  9. Withdrawal of return bus fares (Two Regions). This is a particularly grumble in Northumberland and Durham, specially in the coalfield.

Praise has been reported for:

  1. Increased bus services - Northern and Southern Regions; in the latter, there are fewer complaints of rural bus services than for some time.

  2. The wonderful job the railways have done under difficult circumstances, and the “splendid way the L.P.T.B. employees carried on in the bad fog of January 15”.

See also Constant Topics, No. 3.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 18 six P.D.Rs.)

21a. Petrol

During the past four weeks there have again been fewer allegations of the improper use of petrol, except from the North Midland Region where they have been reported every week on the usual lines ... “200 cars seen outside one dance hall” ... “cars with only one occupant passing long bus queues” ... “people living on bus routes being allowed petrol for travelling to and from home”. There are complaints of misuse of petrol allowances by private hire firms; “cars are available to pleasure seekers but often cannot be obtained for taking people to hospital”.

(3. 4. 5SE. 8)

22. Industry

During the past four weeks there has been some comment on familiar lines on the following:

Strikes (Eight Regions): Disgust continues, and the demand for more vigorous methods of dealing with strikers.

Transfer of workers (Five Regions): “Why are workers sent away from their home towns to jobs, when similar jobs at home are also needing labour?”

Idle time (Four Regions): In Leeds, there is some complaint that workers must put in a full shift whether there is work to fill in the time or not.

Change-over and stoppage of production (Five Regions). Fears of unemployment are reported.

See also Constant Topics, Nos. 5, 11, 12.

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

22a. Wages

During the past four weeks , complaints have continued of:

  1. Disparity between skilled and unskilled workers; between munition workers and servicemen; between Empire and U.S. troops and our servicemen.

  2. High wages paid to unskilled workers - particularly young people; and the “general increase after increase” in wages.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 7. 9. 10)

23. Home Guard, Firewatching and Civil Defence

During the past four weeks there has again been some feeling that duties should be relaxed, services cut down and public money saved. (Home Guard, four Regions; Fireguard, three Regions; Civil Defence, one Region). Home Guards specially complain of the demands made on their limited time and energy by “unnecessary parades”, and think that heavy workers in particular should be released from Sunday parades. Firewatchers also feel their duties an unnecessary strain on workers; some maintain that firewatchers should be allowed to report on the sounding of the siren, or those on duty at business premises allowed to sleep. Wardens , “most of whom live near their posts, think they should be allowed to sign on, as evidence they are ready for duty, and then be allowed to remain at home”.

Most of these comments, together with reports of public apathy over Civil Defence duties, come from the Northern, North Eastern, North Western, North Midland and Midland Regions where heavy raids are not expected. The retaliatory bombing, which is generally expected when invasion starts, will, it is thought, be largely confined to the South and South East.

In addition, the following comments are reported:

Firewatching : Some irritation is expressed at what are described as “the vagaries” of the new firewatching orders, e.g. “in slightly vulnerable areas, some factories are exempted by the local authority, while others nearby, which are controlled by Government Departments, have to increase their watchers” (North Midland Region). North Staffordshire people, too, are said to resent being classed as one area with Birmingham as regards Fire Guards on commercial premises; they think that the vulnerability of the area and the frequency of raids are what ought to count. Some confusion is reported in Sunderland as to “whether the old system of firewatching or the new block Fire Guard scheme is in operation - if the siren went to-night, there would be chaos”.

Reference is also made to continued resentment at married women's dislike of having to do so in “this dangerous place”.

Civil Defence : Cutting down of staff, and speeches about relaxation of duties are thought to contribute to a feeling of safety, and even in London some apathy over C.D. duties is reported, People ask “why better use cannot be made of full-time C.D. workers during the months with no aerial activity” ... “instead of idling away their time playing darts”; workers themselves complain of the trivial jobs given them by the local authorities.

Gas masks : People laugh or are indifferent when wardens ask them to have their gas masks inspected. It is thought that insufficient publicity has been given to the need to have them tested, and to the offer to repair them free of charge during January and February. This official move to get respirators into perfect condition by the end of this month is taken by some as indicating the date of the second front.

Home Guard : Some members are dissatisfied about the present method of enrolment. “Many men are said to obtain chits easily, either from their employers, stating they do 70 hours work a week, or from their doctors, saying they are unfit for duty; whereas men already in the Home Guard do longer hours of work but cannot get their release” (North Midland Region). Some H.G. battalions regret the break up of the old companionships of the original battalion, as a result of taking so many officers and men into A.A. units.

Postwar prospects : Members of the H.G., N.F.S. and C.D. Services are beginning to speculate about their future after the war. Full-timers in the N.F.S. and C.D. Services are growing concerned about their prospects of postwar employment, feeling that their Services are likely to end with the war in Europe (Northern Region).

(1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 6. 8. 9. 10)

23a. Blackout

Not a great deal of comment, but continued complaints of the depressing effect of the blackout, and some demand for its modification, whether by lifting it an hour earlier in the morning, or by more street-lighting in towns. (Star-lighting in Sunderland and Newcastle, however, is criticised on the grounds that the lights are placed too high to benefit the public, while adding to bus drivers' difficulties.)

Again complaints of violation of the blackout by dazzling car lights - particularly those on U.S. vehicles (Eastern Region) and on buses during raids (London) - and by U.S. soldiers' torches.

(1. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 8. 9. 10)

24. Income tax

During the past four weeks the need for more publicity has been reported, as it is felt the pay-as-you-go system is not yet generally understood (Five Regions). General approval of the scheme continues, and B.B.C. explanatory talks were much appreciated (One Region). Specific comments (Two Regions each) are:

  1. The code number and instructions on forms now being issued are causing some bewilderment.

  2. Workers take exception to taxation of overtime and bonuses. Complaints are made of contradictory press reports on this subject.

  3. Some managements, particularly small firms with greatly reduced staffs, feel that the scheme is unnecessarily complicated and complain of the difficulty of finding suitable help for the extra work.

Postwar credits : Scepticism about the honouring of postwar credits, grumbles at non-delivery of 1943 credits, and speculation whether credits will take the form of “cash or credit for goods”, are reported each from one Region.

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

25. Furniture

During the past four weeks complaints have continued of the high price of furniture (Five Regions) - chiefly second-hand, but also Utility furniture (Three Regions), which is thought too dear for its quality. There have, too, been complaints of the shortage and high price of floor coverings (Three Regions). Excessive prices at auctions and evasion of the law are also alleged (Two Regions).

There are complaints of delay in the delivery of Utility furniture.

(1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 6. 9. 10. 13)

26. Alarm clocks

During the past four weeks complaints of shortage, and demands for the greater availability, of alarm clocks have continued. An increase in facilities for repairs is also thought necessary.

There have been complaints of distribution (Three Regions); and some Trade Union branches are thought to have been inefficient in the issue of permits.

In the North Eastern Region, it has been complained that large stores have stocks of alarm clocks and can supply on demand; while small businesses have to obtain the clocks against permits, thus causing delay.

(2. 4. 5. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11)

27. Salvage

During the past four weeks complaints of the non-collection of salvage have continued (Five Regions), and lack of enthusiasm for salvage campaigns is attributed to this. There is some feeling that metal salvage is no longer necessary, as dumps of railings are still lying rusting (Two Regions). People are “tired of the periodic lament for bones”; it is suggested that, if it is impossible to collect them in time to prevent them becoming a nuisance, either the butcher should collect them from his own customers, or that home-killed meat should be boned at the abattoir.

Regret is reported at the issue of a Government circular advising the discontinuance of the collection of tins (Three Regions). It is felt this will lead to tins being strewn about, and might be a menace to health in warm weather.

Complaints are reported from two Regions of the non-clearance of dustbins by dustmen - in some areas “for as long as five weeks”.

See also Constant Topics, No. 14.

(3. 5. 6. 8. 9. 10)

28. Old age pensions

During the past four weeks comment has declined, but dissatisfaction with the basic rate is still reported (Four Regions). It is felt that something should be done to help to meet the rising cost of living. Some pensioners also think their savings should not be taken into account when considering their eligibility for pensions.

(2. 3. 5. 9)

29. Servicemen's pensions and dependants' allowances

During the past four weeks complaints of the inadequacy of pensions and allowances for servicemen and their dependants have continued, but to a lesser degree. People realise the present rates are much improved but think more could be done. Other comments are (One Region each):

  1. Simpler and quicker methods are needed for dealing with pensions and allowances due to bereaved families.

  2. The refusal of pensions to ex-servicemen whose disability cannot be proved to be due to war service is thought very hard.

  3. Women in receipt of War Service Grant allowances cannot understand why the allowance is continually altering. It is thought much correspondence could be saved if a form of explanation were sent out when the amount is altered.

(3. 4. 5)

Constant Topics Overleaf

III. MONTHLY SUMMARY OF CONSTANT TOPICS NO. 19 .

(Covering period from 4th January to 1st February, 1944)

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. Inadequacy of clothing coupons for :

(a) General

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 8. 9. 10. 11.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 5. 5SE. 7. 8. 9. 10.

(b) Renewing household goods

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 6. 7. 8. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 11.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5SE. 6. 7. 11.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 6. 9. 10.

(c) Children

13 January Regions 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 9. 10. 11.
20 January Regions 1. 5. 5SE.
27 January Regions 1. 6. 9.
3 February Regions 1. 4.

2. Housing difficulties

(a) Shortage of accommodation

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 9. 10. 11.
20 January Regions 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 9. 10. 11.
27 January Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 9. 10. 11.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 5. 6. 8. 9. 10. 11.

(b) High price of accommodation

13 January Regions 1. 9.
20 January Regions 1. 5. 9.
27 January Regions 1. 3. 5. 6. 9.
3 February Regions 1. 6. 9.

(c) Repair difficulties

13 January Regions 4. 9.
20 January Regions 7. 8. 9.
27 January Regions 9.
3 February Regions 5SE. 6. 9.

3. Transport difficulties

(a) General

13 January Regions 1. 3. 7. 8. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 8. 9. 10. 11.
27 January Regions 1. 3. 4. 5SE. 10.
3 February Regions 2. 4. 5. 5SE. 8. 10. 11.

(b) Rural areas

13 January Regions 2. 3. 4. 5SE. 6. 7.
20 January Regions 2. 3. 4. 6.
27 January Regions 2. 3. 4.
3 February Regions 2. 6.

4. Tiredness and ill-health

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5SE. 7. 8. 9.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 8. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 9. 10. 11.
3 February Regions 1. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 9. 10.

5. Disparities in pay

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 7. 9. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 9.
27 January Regions 2. 3. 4. 5.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 6. 7. 9.

6. Footwear difficulties

(a) Poor quality

(i) Children's

13 January Regions 3. 6. 7.
20 January Regions 3. 4. 6. 7. 8. 9. 11.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 4. 6. 9.
3 February Regions 3. 4. 6. 8.

(ii) General

13 January Regions 2. 3. 4. 10. 13.
20 January Regions 2. 5. 7. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 2.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 10.

(b) Shortage

(i) Children's

13 January Regions 1. 3. 5. 6. 7. 11.
20 January Regions 3. 4. 6. 7. 8. 11.
27 January Regions 5. 6. 7.
3 February Regions 3. 4. 6.

(ii) General

13 January Regions 2. 3. 4. 7.
20 January Regions 2. 4. 7. 10.
27 January Regions 2.
3 February Regions 2.

(c) Repairs

(i) Difficulty and poor quality

13 January Regions 2. 5. 10. 13.
20 January Regions 2. 9.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 5.
3 February Regions 2. 3. 5.

(ii) Long delay

13 January Regions 4. 7. 10.
20 January Regions 2. 4. 7. 9.
27 January Regions 1. 5. 6.
3 February Regions 2. 6. 7.

7. Shopping difficulties and food queues

13 January Regions 1. 2. 4. 5. 7. 9.
20 January Regions 2. 3. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 5. 5SE. 9.
3 February Regions 3. 5SE. 9. 10.

8. Criticism of Utility clothing

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 10. 13.
20 January Regions 6.
27 January Regions 1. 3. 5SE. 6.
3 February Regions 1. 13.

9. Smallness of present milk ration

13 January Regions 4. 5SE. 6. 7.
20 January Regions 1. 5. 6.
27 January Regions 4. 5. 6. 10.
3 February Regions 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 11.

10. Preferential treatment by shopkeepers and conditional sales to the public

13 January Regions 2. 4. 8.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 4. 6. 8. 10.
27 January Regions 6.
3 February Regions 3.

11. Enforced idleness in industry, wasted time, or complaints of bad organisation

13 January Regions Nil
20 January Regions 2. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 5.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 4. 8. 10.

12. High wages

13 January Regions 3. 5.
20 January Regions 2. 3.
27 January Regions 3.
3 February Regions 2. 3. 5SE. 6.

13. Inadequacy of fat ration

13 January Regions 7. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 3. 6. 10.
27 January Regions 3. 5SE.
3 February Regions 10.

14. Non-collection of salvage

13 January Regions 3.
20 January Regions 3. 5. 8. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 3.
3 February Regions 3. 8.

SHORTAGES

15. Shortage of fish

13 January Regions 2. 6. 7. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 10.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 10.

16. Shortage, poor quality, high price or distribution of coal

13 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 9. 11.
20 January Regions 1. 3. 5. 6. 10. 11.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 8. 9. 11.
3 February Regions 2. 3. 4. 5. 8. 11.

17. Shortage of domestic help

13 January Regions 1. 4. 5. 6. 7. 9.
20 January Regions 4. 7. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 3. 4. 7. 9.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 3. 6. 7.

18. Shortage of batteries

(a) Torch

13 January Regions 1. 4. 5. 5SE.
20 January Regions 4. 6. 7.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5SE. 6. 10.
3 February Regions 1. 2. 6. 10. 11.

(b) Cycle

13 January Regions 2. 5. 6.
20 January Regions 2. 7.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 4. 6. 10.
3 February Regions 1. 3. 4. 6.

(c) Unspecified

13 January Regions 1. 5. 9.
20 January Regions 6. 7.
27 January Regions 2. 5SE. 6. 10.
3 February Regions 3. 5SE. 10.

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

13 January Regions 5. 5SE. 6. 8. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 4. 6. 8.
27 January Regions 1. 6.
3 February Regions 1. 3. 5SE. 6. 8. 10.

20. Shortage and bad distribution of fruit (excluding oranges)

13 January Regions 1. 3. 10.
20 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 5. 7. 8. 10.
27 January Regions 1. 7. 9.
3 February Regions 2. 3. 10.

21. Shortage of bedding, including sheets

13 January Regions 1. 2. 7. 10. 13.
20 January Regions 1. 4.
27 January Regions 1. 2. 3. 5SE. 6.
3 February Regions 3. 5. 6. 8.

22. Shortage of and desire for Wellingtons

13 January Regions 4. 6.
20 January Regions 2. 4. 6. 7.
27 January Regions 4. 6.
3 February Regions 2. 4. 6.

23. Shortage of razor blades

13 January Regions 1. 4.
20 January Regions 1. 3. 5.
27 January Regions 5SE. 7.
3 February Regions 1. 5SE. 6. 8.

24. Shortage of and demand for alarm clocks

13 January Regions 2. 8. 9. 11.
20 January Regions 7. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 4. 5.
3 February Regions 10.

25. Shortage and high price of spirits

13 January Regions 5. 10. 11.
20 January Regions 1. 9.
27 January Regions 4. 5. 7.
3 February Regions 10. 11.

26. Shortage and unequal distribution of sweets and chocolate

13 January Regions 2. 10.
20 January Regions 3. 9. 10.
27 January Regions 2. 10.
3 February Regions 3. 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 past month: (i) Disgust with strikes (ii) Inadequacy of old age pension (iii) Shortage and poor distribution of dried fruit (iv) Shortage of suet (v) Shortage of shoe polish .

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