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SECRET
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
Copy No. 286

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.

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Wt 39944. 10M 11/43. W.R.R. & S. Ltd. GP 38. (14).
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
SECRET

No. 167 16th December, 1943

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

I. GENERAL COMMENTS

1. General

Spirits are at about the same level as last week. Pleasure is again reported at the successful outcome of the Teheran Conference; Mosley's release still causes some bitterness; but there is comparatively little comment on any war event, and personal affairs come first:

Other home front topics : Scepticism over postwar prospects continues; so do complaints of insufficient coupons, particularly for renewing household goods; and problems of footwear, children's especially.

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

2. The Allied Conferences

Widespread satisfaction, particularly with the Teheran Conference, and strengthened hopes of an offensive in the West or the Balkans. Interest, however, does not appear to be intense, nor comment varied; this is attributed to lack of information as to the decisions reached, and to a certain impatience with “momentous conferences” - a desire for deeds not words.

First Cairo Conference : Much approval for the promises to China and the decisions about Japan. Many, however, feel that to announce the drastic curtailment of the Japanese Empire is rather premature and over-confident. There is a slight increase of interest in the Far Eastern War.

Teheran Conference : Again great pleasure that “the Big Three” have met at last, that their meeting has been so cordial and that it appears to have resulted in complete agreement. The fact that Stalin has actually been out of Russia is in itself considered “a wonderful stroke of business”.

Accounts of the presentation of the Stalingrad Sword caused pleasure.

Turkey and the second Cairo Conference : There is widespread speculation as to what Turkey will do. When the Churchill-Roosevelt-Ineunu talks were first announced, there were high hopes that she would come into the war at once or in the near future. Now people seem less hopeful and there is some irritation with optimistic press headlines which suggested Turkey was about to enter the war. It is variously thought that she will do nothing till Rome has fallen or till we land on her shores to back her up, that the loss of the Dodecanese has discouraged her, that she will remain on the fence till the end, and that she may even betray some of our secrets to the Germans.

The news presentation of the Conferences : Again criticism of our getting the news last. It is suggested that delays which allow the German radio to make announcements before our own, tend to make the public listen to and believe other items in enemy broadcasts. There is some criticism that the festive side of the Conferences was too much stressed, the reference to 37,500 eggs having been consumed being particularly resented. A few ask why Mr. Churchill is “always on the left of the pictures as if he came third” ... “and why his name is last in the signatures”.

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

3. The Mosley release

Discussion, though still widespread (Eleven Regions), is slowly dying down. It continues on the lines reported last week with feeling against the release strongest in industrial areas, and most support for Mr. Morrison's action among the middle-classes. Those who still feel strongly now allege that the voting after the debate clearly showed that Parliament is out of touch with public opinion (Four Regions). The growing minority who feel the Home Secretary is right are now inclined to blame the press for having exaggerated the whole affair.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 9. 10. 11. 17 one Special, twelve provincial P.Cs.)

4. Allied air offensive

Great satisfaction continues (Eight Regions), particularly with the raids on Berlin. Still more intense bombing is wanted. Losses in men and planes cause some anxiety.

The raid on Emden by the U.S.A.A.F. (December 11) is praised (Three Regions), though there is some scepticism about the claim of German fighters destroyed (Two Regions); from a third Region it is reported that U.S. claims are thought to drop when our fighters accompany their bombers.

People variously feel the air offensive is shortening the war (Three Regions), making the second front unnecessary and saving many soldiers' lives (Two Regions each).

However, regret among a minority at the killing of German civilians and the general destruction is reported from six Regions. It is said there can be no rejoicing at the smashing of homes. On the other hand a “storm of anger” is said to have been aroused in the diocese by the Bishop of Gloucester's Diocesan Letter in which he roundly condemned the bombing of Germany. It is felt he should retire if he can't stop “upsetting folk”; and that such sentiments should not be publicised in wartime.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 17 eleven provincial P.Cs.)

5. Reprisals and Secret Weapons

A few people in London, the South East and the North feel apprehensive about reprisals; people in other parts are “undisturbed”.

Discussion of the secret weapon threat has declined (Three Regions), and little concern is now reported.

(1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 17 two provincial P.Cs.)

6. Russia

Admiration for the Russian progress continues widespread. People are pleased that recent German counter-offensives achieved so little, but a minority fear that Kiev may be recaptured by the Germans. There is some speculation about a Russian winter offensive.

Speculation is also reported about the extent of Russian influence after the war (Five Regions). Whilst most are hoping for postwar co-operation with Russia, there are still a number who view postwar Russia with doubt.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 13. 17 two provincial P.Cs.)

7. Italy

There are still many references to disappointingly slow progress, which leaves the enemy far too much time to dig himself in. Nevertheless some are satisfied that the advance, if slow, is sure. People are said to realise the toughness of the going.

There is again praise for the 5th and 8th Armies which are fighting under such difficult conditions. Some people are beginning to feel that this front is only a side-show ... “we are not falling into the trap of concentrating large forces there and playing into German hands”.

Despite the announcement about an Italian unit fighting alongside our men, the Italians are still looked on as not being of much use. It is thought that a much firmer attitude should be adopted to protect our troops from Italian profiteering.

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

8. War at Sea

General satisfaction with the recently announced defeat of the two U-boat attacks on an Atlantic convoy. In three Regions the news is said to have been accepted as further proof that the battle of the Atlantic has been won. The results are thought to speak well for the co-ordination of the Services engaged.

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

9. Lord Woolton's speech in the House of Lords (December 8) and postwar planning

There has not been much comment, but the speech appears to have been well received. Opinion is, however, divided between those who think it was wise not to promise too much, and those who feel that promises are necessary in reconstruction: “We want to know what we've got ahead of us”.

Postwar planning : Fears continue to outweigh hopes. Some regard Lord Woolton's appointment and speech as clear signs that the Government is really beginning to plan. But many - particularly workers - remain sceptical.

Homes, jobs and social security continue the main pre-occupations.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 10. 11. 13. 17 one Special, six provincial P.Cs.)

10. General Smuts' address (November 25)

Praise continues for what is generally regarded as a personal expression of opinion by a realistic and far-sighted statesman.

Most comment is about his references to France; opinion is divided between those who approve his outspokenness, and those who regard it as ill-timed and likely to damage Anglo-French relations. A few people think he was “put up” by the Government to make the remarks.

His references to Britain being poor after the war also arouse mixed feelings. Some say it is time we faced this fact; others, that it is nonsense.

Reports from four Regions refer to some speculation about the delay in publishing the speech.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 13. 17 seven provincial P.Cs.)

11. Yugoslavia

There is confusion about the guerilla forces, and about the merits of the rival generals.

(1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 6. 11)

12. The French

Criticism of the French, in part stimulated by the Lebanese affair, continues on a reduced scale.

(1. 3. 5. 5SE. 8)

13. Broadcasting and presentation of news

Little comment on news presentation. Complaints continue of the inaccuracy of news (Four Regions), the press being especially criticised for over-emphasising minor points and for sensational headlines. There is also criticism of delay in releasing news, thus allowing German stations to announce it before us (Four Regions).

Programmes : B.B.C. entertainment programmes are again criticised: too much modern music and jazz, and too little good music (Four Regions). Broadcast plays are liked and more would be appreciated (Three Regions).

The Mayor of Narvik's Postscript , December 5, is highly praised (Five Regions) ... “one of the most memorable Postscripts given”.

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

II. SPECIAL COMMENTS

SHORT WEEKLY REVIEW

14. Health

The prevalence of influenza is widely reported this week (Eleven Regions), although in two Regions the epidemic is thought to be past its peak. People are said to be very tired and to lack resistance. The prevalence of illness generally is variously attributed to food deficiencies, long hours of work and extra duties, the blackout, poor quality shoes and lack of warm under-clothing, long waits for transport in bad weather, and overcrowded buses. Official statements concerning the good health of the nation are looked on as contrary to experience and cause irritation ... “it is clear that resistance to infection is generally much lower”.

Doctors : The shortage of civilian doctors and the proposed further call-up for the army, when the civilian medical profession is so over-worked, is causing some concern. The temporary release of some army doctors for civilian work is welcomed. Long and weary waits in surgeries which sometimes remain open until 10.30 p.m. are reported, and it is thought that many people “just drag on as best they can”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 17 one Special, six provincial P.Cs.)

15. The ballot for the mines

There has again been considerable comment on the scheme. The general reaction has been a mixture of approval and criticism; it is felt to be a “necessary evil”.

Approval : The scheme is generally accepted as fair and democratic (Eight Regions). Some, particularly miners, have doubts, however, as to whether it will be equally fair in practice (Three Regions). Exemption, it is feared, will be too easily obtained by those with education and influence.

Criticisms : Chief criticisms of the scheme have been as follows:

The boys themselves are said not to relish the idea of mining instead of the Forces. Some are saying that they will refuse to enter the industry ... “prison before the pits”. Mothers are in many cases equally anxious.

Alternatives suggested are: The release of miners from the Forces and industry (Eight Regions), nationalisation of the mines (Six Regions) and “settling the miners' grievances” (Three Regions).

Other points raised have been:

Cadets : The waste of training is deplored (Five Regions). It is felt that membership of the various corps will suffer accordingly.

Billeting : It is feared that mining families and billetees will not mix very successfully (Four Regions).

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

16. Toys and other Christmas presents

There are many complaints of the shortage, high price and poor quality of toys (Seven Regions), and the difficulty of providing presents for children. There is also comment on the difficulty of finding “seasonal goods” and on the exorbitant price of fancy articles.

The following are each mentioned in one Regional report:

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

17. Food

General satisfaction remains, although comment continues about the shortage of fish (Five Regions), and the smallness of the present milk ration (Four Regions).

Other topics now in the public mind are:

Christmas fare (Eleven Regions):

Food for invalids and old people (Five Regions): These people's “plight” is regretted. It is felt that the shortage of milk, fish and oranges enhance the problem.

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

18. Housing and billeting

Complaints and anxiety continue to be reported on familiar lines.

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

19. Clothing

Comment on the usual lines, with special reference to:

Extra coupons for larger children : A few complaints of unfairness or inequality are reported (Three Regions). Some inefficiency on the part of the schools is alleged. One report refers to a school where children were refused coupons if they were absent on the day of examination. Another mentions a child who just missed the extra coupons by [Text Missing]⅛" on the day he was measured, yet whose feet were of the requisite size by October 31, the final date for measuring. In these tests, much is said to depend on the teacher. It is asked when there will be further tests.

Some complain of the conditions, not understanding why “growing boys just under the height limit, but with small feet, get no coupons, yet a small child with large feet gets extra”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 17 one Special, five provincial P.Cs.)

20. The Services

50th and 51st Divisions : The return of members of the 50th and 51st Divisions is causing comment and many believe they are to be the spearhead in the invasion of Western Europe (Four Regions). Some consider they have had enough fighting and should not be sent abroad again.

Forces' mail : Two reports refer to parcels from men in the Forces abroad being tampered with. One refers to “organised thieving” from parcels from the Middle East, many of which fail to arrive intact - “food parcels often do not arrive at all”. It is suggested that the contents list should be erased after censorship, as this - particularly when it mentions silk stockings - is a temptation. Some concern is also expressed by the public on learning of the “non-arrival of parcels sent to the men out East”. One case is alleged where seventeen parcels were sent, not one of which was received.

R.A.F. : Some concern is expressed (Three Regions) at the alleged loss of pay and rank incurred when R.A.F. men are grounded through circumstances beyond their control. This is thought unfair.

(1. 2. 3. 5. 6. 7. 10. 11)

21. Agriculture

Comment is again reported on the revised farm prices announced by the Ministry of Agriculture (Five Regions). Outside farm circles, some people think there is no reason for complaint; but farmers themselves are disappointed and fearful for the future. They resent the public being given the impression that subsidies give profits to the farmer, whereas in fact they only reduce the price of bread and milk to the public.

Feeding-stuffs for farm stock (One Region): The increase announced by the Minister of Agriculture (December 8) has given pleasure.

The control of sales of poultry from December 1 (One Region) is thought to have had a “very devastating effect on sales”. Many complain that the prices are uneconomic.

(3. 4. 6. 7. 8)

III. PERIODICAL REVIEW

22. Youth

During the past four weeks concern at the behaviour of young people has continued widespread. Complaints have been chiefly of:

(a) Excessive drinking (Nine Regions), which is held largely responsible for the increase in V.D; and

The immorality of young people, particularly girls (Seven Region[Text Missing]

The following factors are considered responsible:

(b) Juvenile delinquency and hooliganism (Nine Regions). Wanton damage to property and unruly “gangs” in the streets are deplored. Lack of parental control (Four Regions), high wages, and the films are blamed. It is suggested that the Hereford Court Case gave undesirable publicity to the only form of correction which might act as a deterrent.

Youth Organisations are praised (Six Regions) and it is hoped they will be extended. A new interest in them is thought to exist; some who were formerly against compulsory membership of youth organisations are now veering round to the view that this is the only way to check juvenile delinquency.

It is felt that youth organisations are best run by people not much older than the members.

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

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REFERENCES

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