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SECRET
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
Copy No. 284

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.

P.T.O.

149 150 2 151 3 152 4 156 8 160 12 161 13 162 14 165 17 166 18 167 19 168 20 169 21 170 22

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION
HOME INTELLIGENCE WEEKLY REPORT
SECRET

No. 142 24th June, 1943

(Covering period 15th to 22nd June, 1943)

I. GENERAL COMMENTS

1. General state of confidence and reaction to news

For the seventh week in succession now - since the final defeat of the Axis in Africa - public spirits remain on a high level. They are maintained by:

On the other hand, the following, while not adversely affecting confidence, are considered “flies in the ointment”:

Speculation continues about the length of the war in Europe, with opinion again divided between: “we've seen the last blackout” and “it'll drag on for some years yet”. Some people fear that there is over-confidence and that this may lead to a slacking of effort - the superstitious think it may bring misfortune.

Two reports mention the fact that there does not appear to be a great deal of talk about the war - “less than might be expected, considering events”.

There is, on the other hand, much talk of holidays, not only Whitsun but future ones: “People's hearts are more than ever set on getting away”, and it is suggested that “the Government should move heaven and earth to give people a break”.

Home Front grumbles are mainly about clothing (particularly footwear), the lack of fresh fruit, transport and shopping difficulties. All of these complaints are widespread.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 all provincial P.Cs. 22 Passim.)

2. The King's visit to the Mediterranean

People were surprised and excited to hear of the King's visit to North Africa. They are very pleased at this “splendid recognition of what our troops have done” and feel “it will buck our boys up”. Women with relatives serving in North Africa are particularly appreciative and are “honoured that the Queen will feel the same as us while he's away”.

Anxiety for His Majesty's safety is, however, very great; it was increased by his non-arrival in England after a press statement (June 19) that he had left Gibraltar for London by air. Many criticise the issuing of information about his movements before his return: “Neither he nor the Prime Minister should run such risks”.

Other reactions to the North African visit include:

People are also very pleased about his visit to Malta, which they consider singularly appropriate.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 22 passim.)

3. The new Viceroy of India

Although the appointment of Field-Marshal Sir Archibald Wavell as Viceroy came as a complete surprise, it has been received with approval as a “wise and clever move” by the great majority. Field Marshal Wavell has great personal popularity, and it is believed he has a “knowledge of India's problems” and is “unencumbered by political connections”. Some people are anxious about “the waste of his great military talent”, while others suggest that “he will not go down well with the Indian Nationalists”. At the same time, it is generally felt “the defence of India must come first......and Wavell is the man to see that it does”.

Commander-in-Chief, India : The appointment of General Sir Claude Auchinleck as Commander-in-Chief, India, is also reported to be popular (Five Regions). “He had bad luck in Egypt, and deserves his new job.” It is thought that “a combination has been found which will assure the military strength of India”.... “Every example of firm purpose in war policy is approved.”

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 11. 22 three P.D.Rs.)

4. The next move

Widespread expectation continues that “we are building up for our assault, and any day now the big news may break”. People are on the whole confident that our plan is well worked out, and that we will strike when we are ready.

Tension at the delay is, however, growing; a small minority are worried: “The campaigning months are passing.... are we waiting too long?”

Criticism of “restless” newspaper headlines and over-optimistic prophecies continues.

Casualties : Many, particularly relatives of servicemen, fear that the slaughter will be terrible. However, the capture of Pantelleria, with “the loss of only forty men”, has encouraged some to think “we may be able to save a lot of lives by preliminary air and naval actions before our forces land”.

Italy : The capture of the islands is looked on as “a step towards the collapse of Italy”; it is hoped that the air bases they provide may make landings on the mainland unnecessary. Opinion varies as to how long Italy will hold out, but many think “she can be knocked out in the immediate future”. A few feel “Germany will never allow her to give up”. Some people continue to be irritated at “our being led to believe the Italians cannot fight”. Reports from two Regions mention some pity for the “deluded Italians”.

Speculation as to where we shall strike continues, and many think it will be at several places at once.

(a) The Mediterranean : Italy, with Sicily and Sardinia, is still first choice. The belief, however, that she may collapse without invasion, and the closing of the Turko-Syrian frontier, have this week stimulated discussion about possibilities in the Eastern Mediterranean. People are particularly wondering what part Turkey will play. Will she “get off the fence” and join the Allies now we are winning, or at least let us use the Dardanelles and link up with Russia? The recall of the Turkish Ambassador in Vichy is taken by some as a sign that Turkey is “backing us”.

Whether Turkey helps or not, however, the Balkans are a favoured guess, with or without the Dodecanese and Crete.

(b) Western Europe is not out of the running; while Holland and Norway are cited as possibles, a strongly held view is that “if we go across the Straits of Dover we will have short lines of communication and a preponderance of air strength. It is also looked on as “the shortest cut to Berlin”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 ten provincial P.Cs. 22 passim.)

5. Allied air offensive

Reactions differ little from those reported last week, though comment about “the twelve days lull” has now given way to satisfaction with the renewed heavy bombing of German industries.

Although still confined to a minority, there seems to be “a growing feeling that raids will end the war without much hard fighting”. “People who were once dismayed that our land forces were not speeding long ago to the relief of the Red Army, are now speculating as to whether bombing may not be the quicker way.”

The increasing scale of American Fortress raids on Germany, and particularly their increased losses, are leading to a greater appreciation of the American efforts, and of Americans in general.

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

6. Air Raids on this country

There is “some anxiety about sneak raiders, and fears that our casualties are worse than the public is allowed to know”. People want to know what is meant by the “small number of fatal casualties” in the day to day communiqués, and speculate on “the size of the monthly total”.

The Plymouth raid (June 13): Though “morale was good”, the raid is described “as a shock to the city” after “a gap of two years, - especially by comparison with the parade of air strength in the recent Wings for Victory week”.

The Grimsby raid (June 14): Many people in the North Midland Region are “anxious about the effect of the new anti-personnel bomb” used in this raid. In view of the casualties caused by handling these bombs, more warnings and instructions are thought necessary. Some consider the raid “a direct consequence of Mr. A.V. Alexander's speech during Wings for Victory week, in which he mentioned the splendid work done by the Grimsby trawlers in minesweeping, thus drawing attention to Grimsby”.

The London raids (June 18): Many believe that the postal sorting office was picked out by the German raiders and wonder “what the balloons and other defences were doing”.

(2. 3. 5. 6. 7)

7. Low-flying planes

Dislike of planes flying low over built-up areas, particularly at night, has been mentioned in reports from four Regions during the past fortnight. Apart from the disturbance to people's sleep, it is said to make elderly people very nervous. Though most people take it for granted that the machines are ours, some imagine that “an old sneak raider may be about”.

(2. 3. 6. 7)

8. Poison gas

There has been “some increase in interest in poison gas, its possibilities as a weapon, and the likelihood of its use”. A few fear the Germans may use it when we invade the Continent; it is believed the Japanese are already using it against the Chinese. The majority do not expect gas attacks “as long as we have air superiority”, and are not sufficiently concerned to see that their gas masks are in order. “Few of them even know where their respirators are to be found”, according to one report.

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

9. North African Politics

Exasperation with the “continued squabbles” of the French leaders has increased; “Their heads should be knocked together to make them agree”. The more disturbed fear that “the factors which caused the 1940 crack up in France are still in operation” ... “it bodes ill for France when she is freed”. For others the situation has become a joke.

“Both Generals are unpopular”; there is still some sympathy for General de Gaulle, though his stock has gone down considerably during the last few weeks. He is thought to be “difficult” and his uncompromising attitude is criticised. But against this is the feeling that “the French have compromised too much in the past”, and that the “pro-Vichy elements” need ousting.

General Giraud, “though less unpopular than he was a few months ago”, is criticised for clinging too obstinately to the “Vichyites” in his entourage. He is described as “the nicer but the stupider of the two”.

Allied “guidance” in the crisis has been little commented on as yet. Preliminary reactions are that it is “evidence of Allied strength and realism in the political field”. It is felt that France may need “strong Allied guidance” for a long time to come.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 two provincial P.Cs. 22 thirty-four P.D.Rs.)

10. War at sea

Relief and pleasure are reported at the recent news of successes against U-boats. The public are said to be “becoming more confident about the whole position at sea”, and it is thought that “we are getting on top of this menace”, thanks to the new methods and devices.

(1. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 7. 10. 11. 13. 22 twenty-one P.D.Rs.)

11. The Far East

The recent defeats inflicted on the Japanese Air Force at Guadalcanal, the attack on the Japanese camp at Kiska, and the support given by American bombers during the recent battles in China are “regarded as encouraging”. Increased aid to China is urged, as people now feel that the “Chinese, with air support, have more than a fighting chance”. Some think that “events are brewing up” for an offensive by the Americans.

The growing confidence of Australian leaders about the diminished chances of invasion by Japan is looked on as reassuring (Three Regions).

(1. 2. 3. 4. 8. 10)

12. Russia

The successful Russian bombing offensive and the “reappearance of the Orel bulge” have aroused appreciative interest this week, although Russian claims of air successes “still seem to be unreal”. People are again speculating as to where and by whom the next move will be made. There is admiration and sympathy for the Russians and “optimism for the future”; a minority think Germany may be “holding back her forces till she sees which way the cat jumps - from the West or the East”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 8. 9. 10. 11. 21. 22 sixteen P.D.Rs.)

13. U.S. Strikes

Adverse comment on the U.S. coal strikes continues (Six Regions). “The Americans haven't yet got the right attitude to the war”, and “this sort of thing doesn't help to promote good relations between our two countries”.

However, people from mining districts are reported to feel strongly sympathetic towards the U.S. miners - “they should pay them from the time they reach the bottom of the pits; that's only fair and should go for us too”.

Reactions to the latest settlement have not yet been received.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 7. 8. 10. 11. 21.)

14. The Labour Party Conference

The conference is reported to have caused “considerable public interest” in Scotland and the North Eastern Region, but much less in other Regions. The points causing most comment were:

The vote against the Communist Party's application for affiliation : Though one report says that opinion was divided about this, the general reaction is said to have been satisfaction and relief. Some take it as “a most hopeful sign that communism will soon be finished and done with in this country”.

The upholding of the electoral truce was widely approved.

The election of the Treasurer : The result was a surprise to many.

The post-war treatment of Germany : There is some interest in the Conference's division of opinion on this question, but there seems to be fairly general agreement with the view that Germany must be completely disarmed after the war. “Little or no sympathy” is reported with the attitude of Mr. Aneurin Bevan and his associates in condemning “so-called Vansittartism within the Labour Party”.

The Labour Party's post-war plans are said to have “caused some disquiet in circles who pay 10/- in the £1 in income tax and who fear that capital and savings will be confiscated”.

The B.B.C. and the Conference : Many liked the B.B.C. reports of the Conference, particularly the recording of parts of the actual speeches, though some thought it took up too much of the B.B.C.'s time.

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

15. Holidays

Whitsun holidays : Reports from the South Western Region and Wales, indicate that there was a good deal of travelling over Whitsun. In Bristol, workers found difficulty in getting to their work, with restricted services and holiday crowds, and residents of holiday resorts and rural villages complained of food and transport difficulties.

Summer holidays : “A stronger desire than ever” to get away from home this year - particularly among women - is reported from five Regions this week. People feel that “holidays at home will have to be super-attractive to counter this urge”. “Weary war-workers” who feel that they deserve a holiday away, are saying “that the Government should either arrange to stagger holidays, or devise extra transport so that we can get away”.

Factory workers are worried about the question of paid holidays, and there are already rumours, from a London suburb, of a factory which does not intend to pay its employees for the holiday period; women workers are also anxious that their holidays shall coincide with their husbands' leave. Industrial workers want to know if the decision on these points rests with the employer or not.

(2. 3. 5. 7. 8. 9. 22 nine P.D.Rs.)

16. Broadcasting and presentation of news

Comment is again slight. “As news has been so good, people are less critical of its presentation”.

There are a few references to repetition in the news bulletins. “The B.B.C. should be told not to weary tired people and expectant folk with dreary stories to fill in the news time”. Two Regional reports mention that the news on the Empire and European Services is preferred to that on the Home Service, which is described as “dull and uninteresting”.

It is suggested that there is “too much playing up of tension over the forthcoming offensive in both press and radio”. “Many people turn on their sets for each bulletin, expecting that any one may announce that invasion has begun.”

More photographs of R.A.F. raid damage are asked for.

Praise is reported for Paul Winterton's Postscript (June 6), and J.B. Priestley's broadcast (June 21). The broadcasts of the Oaks and Derby were much enjoyed in the North Eastern Region as “recapturing for a few moments the pleasures of peace time”.

Criticism is reported of “The Man in the Street”. “His views are by no means the opinion of the man-in-the-street, and his voice and delivery are not popular”.

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

II. SPECIAL COMMENTS

MONTHLY REVIEW

17. Post-war conditions

Those who continue to discuss post-war problems - and they are many - may be roughly divided into:-

Matters of particular interest, and - for many people - concern are:

Agriculture : There is some “anxiety about the future of English farming after the war”. The Government's agricultural policy is watched with interest, and it is hoped that “imports will not be allowed to force down home prices”.

A Special Postal Censorship report on Post-war Reconstruction states that two noticeable trends of opinion emerge from the examination of 791 extracts dealing with various angles of post-war world reconstruction:

Other points noted include a diminished interest in Russia, a new interest in the possible advantages of emigration, some slight apprehension about state control, increased conjecture on post-war Europe, and a growing desire for retribution towards Germany.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 Special P.C.)

18. Industry

Production : Over the past four weeks complaints of poor production have been reported from several Regions every week. Comment has been of a general nature, rather than criticism of specific firms. Workers are said to complain of “enforced idleness” and wasted time, and to feel in some cases “that their efforts are not put to the best use”. Managements report slackness among workers, and complain of production held up by shortage of men and materials, or by lack of co-operation between Government Departments. Very few references are made to absenteeism. While the general public accept these complaints, they also feel that low production is due to bad relations between workers and management, to complacency on both sides, to the cost plus system, to income tax, and also to the following:

Dissatisfaction among engineers at the results of the recent National Arbitration Tribunal Award was reported from several Regions at the beginning of the month, but no comments have been received during the past two weeks. Earlier in the month there were two references to the low wages of railway workers, but, according to a report from one Region, the public are satisfied that an amicable settlement was made by the recent wages agreement between the railway employers and employees (announced in the press June 19).

Strikes : Condemnation of strike action continues to be reported (Five Regions), and among non-industrial sections of the community there is a feeling that strikers “should be dealt with ruthlessly”. Particular reference is made to:

The Essential Work Order has been criticised both by managements who complain “of the arbitrary limitation of freedom”, and by shipyard workers who believe that it “is used by officials to retard output”. People fear that the restrictions imposed by the Order fall heavily on juveniles “who cannot change to more congenial work”, and on married women (above the call-up age) who were working before the Order was introduced, and now find they cannot leave their work.

Compensation to injured workmen : Two references have been made to the difficulties of injured workmen who have to wait a long time before they receive their final award. In many cases this imposes great hardship on their families. The maximum sum payable under the Workmen's Compensation Act is also considered inadequate in view of the present high cost of living, and people ask why the Insurance Companies cannot pay more now, since their premiums are based on wages which have, on the whole, risen since the outbreak of war.

Production in Northern Ireland : Reports from Northern Ireland stress the excellent results obtained from Sir Stafford Cripps' recent visit and tour of Northern Irish war production firms. Workers and management both appreciated his “goodwill and sincerity” and the general feeling appeared to be “that he is with everyone who puts war production first”. His references to “the official tendency to shorten hours” and his stress on improving the technique of personnel management were particularly appreciated.

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

19. Manpower

During the past four weeks comment on the manpower situation has been chiefly concentrated on the call-up of older women, their difficulties, and their accusations against “young women dodgers”, and on the “inexplicable and unnecessary transfer of labour”.

Evasion of the call-up : Criticism, which is chiefly directed against young married childless women and “select young ladies doing the minimum of voluntary work”, comes largely from older women who feel that they should not be called on till all the younger “dodgers are rounded up”. Complaints of evasion of the call-up by young men have decreased during the past four weeks.

The transfer of labour : The purpose of transferring labour is still little understood, References to “this senseless merry-go-round” are still reported, and the Ministry of Labour is accused “of not minding who they send where, as long as they can show a transfer!” More specific comment is of:

Call-up of married women : Some opposition to the direction of married women into industry has been reported from two or three Regions every week. There is feeling that older women, particularly “those in a critical period of their lives” and women with growing families, should not be directed into factories.

Women themselves complain that the Labour Exchanges do not provide adequate privacy for their interviews, that their “extenuating circumstances” are not sufficiently taken into consideration, that the National Service Officer will not hear their appeals and that “their lives have now become a slavery”, with work and travelling time added to the burden of running a home. Married women are said to fear that “they will soon be directed into full-time work”, and those without domestic responsibilities dread the possibility of “becoming mobile”; in a Fulham factory recently rumours were circulating that mothers with children of school age were about to be called up and directed into war work. It is suggested that some friction and disappointment would be eliminated if “the machinery of the call-up” were better understood. In some cases people are reported to be ignorant of the functions of the National Service Officer, the National Service Tribunals, and of their right of appeal against the call-up.

During the past four weeks comment has also been reported on the following points:-

Shortage of domestic servants , particularly for old and infirm people.

“Misdirection of labour” : Allegations of men and women directed to “less suitable” and “less important” work have been reported, on a small scale.

Shortage of Nursery accommodation has been reported from several areas. The need for more residential nursery accommodation and for night nurseries for mothers working on the night shift are particularly stressed.

Out-work : Demands for part-time work facilities have been received from villages in the Southern and South Western Regions.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 21)

20. Miners and Mining

There has been considerable anxiety about the fuel position during the last four weeks, “discrepancies in official statements about coal supplies” having caused some bewilderment. “Major Lloyd George says it's O.K.; other speakers say we are facing a bad deficit.” The possibility of a shortage next winter, “when we may not be so lucky with the weather”, is feared.

Criticism is directed at the miners. They are thought to be too much pampered. Some of the blame for low production is attributed to absenteeism and it is felt that “the Government should take action to make them work”. In mining areas, however, it is felt that miners, particularly the older generation, are doing their share and “even being worked too hard”.

The practice of working only unproductive seams is also alleged. There is some belief that the mining industry is being mis-managed. “The whole situation badly needs cleaning up, and any kind of exploitation on the part of miners or mine-owners stopped.” A minority feeling is that only nationalisation will bring greater output. Others suggest that the “only practical remedy” is to comb the Services and reserved occupations for experienced miners, and to direct more labour from other industries into mining. Miners, however, are against the practice of directing young men into the pits against their will. Carelessness results and men's lives consequently endangered.

The miners themselves complain of the disparity in pay between them and munition workers. It is pointed out that men and boys are unlikely to work in the mines when they can get higher wages in more congenial jobs.

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

21. Fuel and domestic coal

There have been recurring complaints of the bad distribution of coal. Coal merchants in some areas are said to have nothing like sufficient stocks to meet legitimate demands, and, in view of Government exhortations to store coal for next winter, considerable dismay is being caused at the lack of supplies. There is some resentment that people who buy a bag at a time are penalised by merchants; those buying in bulk usually receive their full allotment and are enabled to store up in preparation for the winter.

The poor quality and high price of coal are also criticised. The poor quality is put down to the owners closing the good seams until after the war.

Fuel Rationing : From three Regions discussion on fuel rationing has been reported: “Quite a number of people are in favour of it if some fair method can be devised”.

In Wales, however, it is said that the South Wales public would be against fuel rationing.

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

22. Clothing

There has been an increase during the past month in the complaints of the inadequacy of clothing coupons. Women and growing children are said to be experiencing great difficulty. “The allocation is considered to cover too wide a range of commodities.” Much resentment is still felt that household goods are on the personal ration, and the demand for a separate allowance of coupons remains fairly widespread.

People are reported to “be looking forward to the new clothing period”. “Many are praying for September 1.” There is some speculation on the number and value of the new coupons. It is hoped that the position of children will be reviewed and a larger allocation made, especially in the case of “overgrown” children.

Children's footwear : Complaints of the shortage and poor quality of children's footwear have increased. “The position is said to be acute and becoming a real anxiety to mothers.” There is some criticism of the Board of Trade statement (May 25) that three pairs of shoes are provided for each child a year. “Does anyone seriously think that growing children need only three pairs of shoes a year?”

Shoe repairs : The difficulty in getting shoe repairs done and their poor quality are fairly widespread. “Not only do people have to wait some time for the repairs but prices are high and workmanship bad.” “The soles of repaired shoes are said to crack right across before being worn any length of time.”

Utility clothing : There are still some complaints of the poor wearing quality and high coupon value of utility stockings. They are said “to wear into holes in six hours”. A few Regional reports refer to the shortage of non-utility corsets. Utility corsets are said “to be of inferior quality and very ill-fitting”. “Three pairs now have to be purchased in twelve months where one was sufficient in pre-war days.”

Quotas : There have been a few references to “quota systems” in shoe shops. Workers complain that they cannot possibly reach the shops before these quotas are sold. It is asked what the assistants do with their time when the shops are only open for an hour.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21. 22 eight P.D.Rs. 32)

23. Food

Satisfaction with the food situation as a whole has been reported throughout the past month. Complaints of the fish shortage have declined in volume and the only widespread and persistent grumbles have been over the shortage and elusiveness of fresh fruit and tomatoes; these are again reported this week, on almost exactly the same lines as last (Fresh fruit, eleven Regions; Tomatoes, eight Regions).

The scarcity of fresh fruit, however, now appears to have stimulated criticism of the “alleged full fruit standard jam” (Four Regions). There is much disappointment - particularly among those who have been taking sugar instead of jam - that most of the soft fruit is to go to the jam manufacturers, but even those who approve this policy “complain bitterly of the quality of jam now offered”.

During the past month the following have been the subject of repeated but not widespread comment:

Oranges : There is said to be a growing feeling that “as the under fives get other priorities in the way of milk, eggs and fruit juices”, the growing children over five should get the oranges. Even if the under fives get the first chance, “a second period should be introduced for children between 5 - 12”. There have also been complaints of “bad distribution”: “Adults are obtaining supplies, while school children have to go without”. One report mentions “strong criticism of public houses getting oranges easily for slicing into drinks”.

The fat ration has been mentioned in reports from five Regions during the last month. An increase would be welcomed (i) for sandwiches, “when workers have no means of feeding at a British Restaurant or canteen”, and (ii) for home baking, to obviate queueing for cakes.

Packed lunches for workers : The difficulty in providing these has been reported from five Regions. The shortage of cheese, fats and cakes are all mentioned in this connection.

Meat : There have been a number of complaints about what is described - incorrectly - as “meat zoning”. Thus, in the Eastern Region, people complain of “eternal beef” or “eternal mutton”, while in the London and North Eastern Regions they bemoan the long run of pork. Pork is thought to be unwholesome in hot weather, and expensive.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 13. 21 all provincial P.Cs. 22 passim.)

24. The Ration book distribution

Criticism of “the original chaos and confusion” is said to have subsided, and in most Regions distribution is reported to be proceeding smoothly.

Complaints of travelling long distances are only reported from rural areas in the Northern and Southern Regions this week, and the only complaints of queueing come from some districts in the North Midland Region.

(1. 2. 3. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 10. 21. 22 twenty-three P.D.Rs.)

25. Shopping difficulties

Shopping difficulties, particularly for workers, and shopkeepers' preferential treatment of certain customers have been reported steadily throughout the past month. Complaints on both scores appear to have been stimulated by the arrival of fresh fruit, tomatoes, and new potatoes in such quantities as to stimulate the longing without gratifying the taste.

The two main sections of the population who feel that they are unfairly treated are:

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

26. Servicemen, their pensions and dependants

The “whole problem of pensions in all its aspects, but particularly those relating to disability pensions for ex-servicemen and women”, has been widely discussed. The Government's “meanness” and “failure to tackle the problem boldly” have been very much criticised.

The “meagreness” of ex-servicemen's pensions is deplored. They are considered “an example of how the men will be treated after the war”. Feeling is particularly strong about men who are discharged without pensions on the grounds that their disability dates from pre-service days. “If four or five doctors can pass a man as A.1. then it is clear that his illness must be due to war service.”

Servicemen's dependants' pensions and allowances are also criticised. “The drastic reduction of income which often takes place when a serviceman's wife first receives a widow's pension” is considered particularly unjust. Servicemen themselves are said to be distressed at the thought of their dependants suffering in the event of their being incapacitated or killed.

The setting up of pensions appeal tribunals has been welcomed, though they are considered belated. It is also felt that the number contemplated is too small for the volume of work they will have to tackle.

Much interest is being taken in the Pensions Bill. One report says that it is “exercising the public's mind more than anything else outside the war effort”.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 21 one Special P.C.)

27. Local Authorities and Service pay

Resentment at the making up of Service pay to peacetime salary rates in the case of local Government staffs, has been reported from the North Eastern and North Western Regions. Housewives “resent their rates being used for this, when their own husbands in the Forces do not get their pay made up”.

(2. 10)

28. Old Age Pensions

The inadequacy of Old Age Pensions has been widely criticised during the last four weeks. They are considered “totally inadequate in view of the increased cost of living”. Some Budget concessions, it is felt, should have been made to old age pensioners.

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

29. Transport and petrol

Complaints of the early stopping of buses in the evening have increased slightly during the past month. It is felt that “while double summer time is on, trains and buses might run an hour later in the evening”.

Overcrowding of buses is also the cause of some complaint. This is said to have been aggravated by the distribution of ration books. Crowding out of long distance travellers by short distance ones is again complained of. It is suggested that 1d. and 1½d. fares should be eliminated during peak periods.

Petrol : During the past month there have been a few references to the waste and misuse of petrol. There are still thought to be too many large private cars on the road and taxis being misused. It is said that petrol has been wasted in “Wings for Victory” weeks and parades, while business men cannot get enough for their work and are consequently disgruntled.

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

30. Housing and Billeting

The shortage of housing accommodation continues to be a serious difficulty. Expectant mothers and families with children are mentioned as being particularly “hard hit”. “Many, in desperation, take accommodation which is unsuitable and has a detrimental effect upon health.” The high price of accommodation is complained of, and action is requested “to check the soaring prices of so-called furnished rooms”.

Billeting difficulties continue to be experienced in some Regions. There are complaints of wealthy people in large houses with rooms untouched by the billeting officer, whereas working-class people are forced to take billetees. In industrial areas, it is said, “the digs situation leaves much to be desired”. In Slough the need for further hostel accommodation for war workers is urged.... “It is not uncommon for two men who are strangers to be asked to share a bed, although in the Army this is a crime”.

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

31. Agriculture

Government rural housing scheme : A good deal of critical comment has been reported from agricultural areas during the past four weeks on the scheme for building farm cottages. People do not like the design and object to the use of concrete; but one report suggests that criticism springs from real ignorance of the design, and that the building of sample cottages would do much to counteract unfavourable comment. The delay in putting the scheme into operation is also criticised, in view of the urgent need of rural houses; in some areas the allocation of sites is considered unsatisfactory. The number proposed is thought to be inadequate, and people fear “a drift of newly-weds to the towns in the post-war era” if the shortage is still acute when peace comes. There are also complaints of high rents, and of the difference between the Government subsidy and the building costs; it is asked “why the cost of building should be so high when the Government has a right to control building costs”.

The requisitioning of farmland for military purposes, afforestation and, in the Northern Region, for coal borings, has been criticised by farmers during the past month. It is felt that the military and civil authorities should show more consideration to the farmer, and endeavour not to take the more valuable land. In the North Western Region farmers complain that they cannot buy such good land as the farms which have been taken from them, and they say that they are obliged to turn to dairy farming which yields them a smaller income.

Wastage of crops : Two references have been made to the non-collection of cabbage and beet crops, and farmers appeal for better methods of collection next year.

Harvest help : Farmers continued to express fears that labour will be short at harvest time and suggest that labourers be released from Home Guard duties during this period, or that local troops should be made available to help. Some farmers are still said to be sceptical about “the value of town helpers”.

Arrangements for the holiday harvesting scheme are said to be going forward in the S. Western Region, but in the Bournemouth and Surrey areas people complain that little progress is being made.

Prospective helpers in the North Eastern Region still want more detailed information, and ask[Text Missing] if the Citizen's Advice Bureau cannot be supplied with it. Other would-be helpers are worried about the low pay. Londoners would find the scheme more attractive if arrangements could be made for them to go away by twos or threes, or in families.

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

32. Salvage

Complaints of the non-collection or irregular collection of salvage have continued during the last four weeks (Ten Regions). “Householders are beginning to wonder if there is in fact a real demand for the material which they so carefully collect.” Appeals in the press and on the radio are criticised; “the public are completely aware of the need for saving paper, books and rubber, but often find great difficulty in having them removed”. It is local authorities who need to be made salvage conscious - not the housewife.”

Criticism is growing at the “hundreds of dumps” lying around, some, it is said, for over two years. The public are also “shocked and amazed” at seeing everything “lumped together by the dustman”.

The removal of railings : There has been criticism and a good deal of dissatisfaction at the collection of railings from private property, particularly “since so many dumps of metal are seen to be left untouched over long periods” (Eight Regions).

Particularly strong feeling exists where young children are left exposed to traffic dangers. The ban on the building of wooden gates adds to this feeling. The “official answer calling for ‘parental control’ is greeted contemptuously”.

In agricultural areas there is also criticism of the removal of railings “where herds of cattle and sheep are continually being driven”, or where animals are loose at night near houses.

The “wanton damage” done by “the disgraceful methods of removal”, is also criticised. There are complaints that the railings after removal are left lying in gardens for a long time, and that some merchants are hoarding ornamental ones till after the war.

(1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 5SE. 7. 8. 9. 10. 13. 21 one provincial P.C.)

33. Health

Complaints of physical and nervous fatigue have been reported frequently during the past month. Absenteeism and industrial unrest are attributed partly to the strain of long working hours combined with extra Civil Defence and household duties. Many feel the need of a “real holiday” - women workers who are “carrying on a double job” being particularly mentioned.

People are inclined to blame “vitamin deficiency in the wartime diet” for the prevalence of skin troubles, indigestion, colds and general debility, and to feel some resentment of official statements that “the health of the nation is better than before the war”.

Tuberculosis : There is comment on the growing fear of an increase in tuberculosis. The distribution of dirty milk in Derby, reported earlier in the month, is still a cause for anxiety.

Maternity cases : The shortage of accommodation for maternity cases is reported (three Regions). “Expectant mothers have sometimes to travel at least twenty-five miles for free hospital accommodation.”

Diphtheria : The British Anti-vaccination Society leaflet which is being circulated in parts of the North Midland Region has met with disapproval.

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

34. Venereal diseases campaign

The campaign continues to be approved, but there is increased demand for more lectures to young people on sex education, and for talks by competent people to older children before leaving school. It is thought that the present method tends to suggest that “V.D. is nothing to fear, provided treatment is promptly sought”. Some people favour compulsory medical examination every year. There is also some demand for up-to-date statistics, and a query as to whether “the alleged increase is really an increase, or due to the fact that with so many people in the Services we are getting details of cases which would normally be unrecorded”.

(3. 5. 8. 9. 10)

35. Income Tax

Dislike of the present method of paying income tax has been reported from five Regions during the last four weeks. Workers in munition factories particularly are concerned at the arrears they might have to pay should war manufacture suddenly cease. The present system encounters “the strong working-class fear of running up debts”.

Trouble occasionally arises now when workers are transferred from one job to another at a lower rate of pay, or when overtime is cut. The “urgency of a pay as you go system is considered proved, in view of the adoption of such a scheme in America”.

(1. 2. 4. 5. 9)

III. MONTHLY SUMMARY OF CONSTANT TOPICS NO. 11

(Covering the period from 25th May to 22nd June 1943)

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

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

Inadequacy of clothing coupons for :

(a) Renewing household goods

(b) Working clothes for heavy workers

(c) Growing children

Local Wings for Victory weeks

(a) Enthusiasm

(b) Scepticism as to how many genuine additional savings result

Transport difficulties

Inadequacy of Service pay and dependants' allowances and Service pensions

Shopping difficulties and food queues

Criticism of strikes

The poor quality or cut of utility clothes

Non-collection of salvage

Inadequacy of Old Age Pensions

Preferential treatment of certain customers by shopkeepers (chiefly over fresh fruit and tomatoes)

Tiredness among war workers

Waste of petrol

Enforced idleness and wasted time

Bad distribution and poor quality of coal

Difficulty in getting shoes repaired

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

Transfer of labour

Unreasonable or careless removal of railings and gates from private houses

Anti-Semitism

Slacking of workers

Shortage of domestic help

Disparity in pay

SHORTAGES

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

Shortage and poor quality of clothing and footwear for :

(a) Children

(b) Adults

Fish

(a) Shortage

(b) Improvement in supplies

Shortage and high price of crockery, glass and kitchenware

Shortage of razor blades

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) Bad behaviour of young people (ii) Firewatching for women (iii) Difficulties in providing packed meals for workers (iv) Too many young men in civilian jobs and evading the call-up (v) Shortage of sweets.

148

REFERENCES

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