'I Refer the Right Honorable Gentleman' - AAR-Only

[Mettermrck]

Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the waves!​

Britons never shall be slaves!​

His Majesty King George V
King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and of the British Dominions beyond the Seas, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India​

CABINET​

Time: January 1936​

Rt. Hon. Stanley Baldwin, M.P. – Prime Minister, First Lord of the Treasury, Minister of the Civil Service of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Leader of the House of Commons
The Prime Minister's main responsibilities include setting the direction of the government, appointing members of the Cabinet, coordinating the activities of the Cabinet and government departments, participating in ceremonial occasions, and being the 'face' of the government in the UK and abroad. The Leader of the House of Commons is a member of the Cabinet of the United Kingdom who is responsible for arranging government business in the House of Commons.

Rt. Hon. James Ramsay MacDonald, M.P. – Lord President of the Council
The Lord President of the Council is a British cabinet position, the holder of which acts as Presiding officer of the Privy Council. His principal responsibility is to preside at meetings of the Privy Council, at which the British monarch formally Assents to Orders-in-Council.

Rt. Hon. Neville Chamberlain, M.P. – Chancellor of the Exchequer
Chancellor of the Exchequer is the government minister responsible for financial matters


Rt. Hon. Viscount Hailsham, M.P. – Lord Chancellor
The Lord Chancellor is the de facto chairman of the House of Lords, the head of the Judiciary, and the head of the Lord Chancellor’s department of state, as the head of which he sits in the cabinet.


Rt. Hon. Sir John Simon, G.C.S.I., K.C.V.O., O.B.E., K.C., M.P. – Secretary of State for the Home Department, Deputy Leader of the House of Commons
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (the Home Secretary) is the chief government minister responsible for law and order in the United Kingdom, including policing, the criminal justice system, the prison service, internal security, and matters of citizenship and immigration.

Rt. Hon. Robert Anthony Eden, M.C., M.P. – Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (the Foreign Secretary) is responsible for the foreign affairs and diplomatic service of the United Kingdom.

Rt. Hon. Viscount Halifax, K.G., G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E., T.D. – Lord Privy Seal, Leader of the House of Lords
Lord Privy Seal is one of the traditional sinecure offices in the British Cabinet. Though one of the oldest offices in government anywhere, since it has no particular function the office has generally been used as a kind of Minister without Portfolio. The Leader of the House of Lords is responsible for overseeing the organisation of government business in the House of Lords and advises the House on matters of procedure, drawing the Lord Chancellor's attention to breaches of order.


Rt. Hon. Malcolm John MacDonald, M.P. – Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs


Rt. Hon. William George Arthur Ormsby-Gore, M.P. – Secretary of State for the Colonies

Rt. Hon. Alfred Duff Cooper, D.S.O., M.P. – Secretary of State for War


Most Hon. The Marquess of Zetland, G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E. – Secretary of State for India


Rt. Hon. Viscount Swinton, G.B.E., M.C. – Secretary of State for Air


Rt. Hon. Walter E. Elliot, M.C., M.P. – Secterary of State for Scotland


Rt. Hon. Walter Runciman, M.P. – President of the Board of Trade

Rt. Hon. Sir Samuel Hoare, Bt, G.C.S.I., G.B.E., C.M.G., M.P. – First Lord of the Admiralty

Rt. Hon. Sir Thomas Walker Hobat Inskip, C.B.E., K.C., M.P. – Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence

Rt. Hon. William Shepherd Morrison, M.C., K.C., M.P. – Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries

Rt. Hon. Oliver Frederick George Stanley, M.C., M.P. – President of the Board of Education

Rt. Hon. Sir H. Kingsley Wood, M.P. – Minister of Health

Rt. Hon. Alfred Ernest Brown, M.C., M.P. – Minister of Labour

Rt. Hon. The Earl Stanhope, K.G., D.S.O., M.C. – First Commissioner of Works

Rt. Hon Leslie Hore-Belisha, M.P. – Minister of Transport


M.C. – Military Cross
M.P. – Member of Parliament
K.C. – King’s Counsel
K.C.V.O. – Knight Commander of the Victorian Order
G.C.S.I. – Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Star of India
G.B.E. - Knight or Dame Cross of the Order of the British Empire
C.B.E. - Commander of the Order of the British Empire
O.B.E – Officer of the Order of the British Empire
K.G. – Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter
G.C.I.E. – Knight Grand Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire
T.D. – Territorial Decoration
D.S.O. – Companion of the Distinguished Service Order
C.M.G. – Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Bt - Baronet

 

[Mettermrck]

The Admiralty Building​

THE 'WHITE' PAPER​

A detailing of the Armed Forces of the British Empire​

January 3, 1936 by the Rt. Hon. Sir Samuel Hoare, Bt, G.C.S.I., G.B.E., C.M.G., M.P., First Lord of the Admiralty, with the gracious cooperation of the British Army and the Royal Air Force​

THE ROYAL NAVY​

Reserve Fleet – Portsmouth

CV HMS Hermes (A)
BB HMS Warspite (RS)
CL HMS Effingham (E)
CL HMS Frobisher (E)
CA HMS Dorsetshire (D)
CL HMS Hawkins (E)
CL HMS Caledon (E)
CL HMS Calypso (E)
CL HMS Caradoc (E)
CL HMS Calcutta (E)
CL HMS Colombo (E)
CL HMS Cardiff (E)
CL HMS Ceres (E)
CL HMS Curacao (E)
CL HMS Danae (E)
CL HMS Dauntless (E)
DD V-class (3)

Home Fleet - Scapa Flow

CV HMS Furious (G)
CV HMS Argus (A)
BB HMS Nelson (KGV)
BB HMS Rodney (KGV)
BB HMS Royal Sovereign (RS)
BB HMS Royal Oak (RS)
BB HMS Resolution (RS)
BB HMS Ramilles (RS)
BC HMS Hood (H)
BC HMS Renown (H)
CL HMS Cairo (E)
CL HMS Galatea (E)
CL HMS Dunedin (L)
CA HMS Neptune (D)
CA HMS Orion (D)

Independent - Home Waters

DD V-class (5)
DD A-class (2)
TR small tramp steamers (4)
SS mid-range submarines

Atlantic Station - Bermuda

CL HMS Dragon (E)
CL HMS Ajax (L)
DD V-class

Mediterannean Fleet - Alexandria

CV HMS Glorious (G)
CV HMS Courageous (G)
BB HMS Queen Elizabeth (RS)
BB HMS Barham (RS)
BB HMS Valiant (RS)
BB HMS Malaya (RS)
BB HMS Revenge (RS)
BC HMS Repulse (H)
CA HMS Devonshire (D)
CA HMS London (D)
CA HMS Shropshire (D)
CA HMS Sussex (D)
CA HMS Berwick (D)
CA HMS Exeter (D)
CA HMS York (D)
CL HMS Coventry (E)
CL HMS Curlew (E)
CL HMS Delhi (E)
CL HMS Despatch (E)
CL HMS Durban (E)
CL HMS Arethusa (L)
DD V-class (4)
DD A-class (2)

Independent - Alexandria

SS mid range submarines (2)

East Indies Station - Colombo

CA HMS Norfolk (D)
CL HMS Diomede (E)
CL HMS Emerald (E)
CL HMS Enterprise (E)
DD V-class

Far East Station - Hong Kong

CV HMS Eagle (A)
CA HMS Cornwall (D)
CA HMS Cumberland (D)
CA HMS Kent (D)
CA HMS Suffolk (D)
CL HMS Capetown (L)
DD V-class (2)
SS mid range submarines (2)

Africa Station - Freetown

CL HMS Carlisle (E)
DD V-class

G - Glorious-class CV
A - Argus-class CV
KGV - King George V-class BB
RS - Royal Sovereign-class BB
H - Hood-class BC
D - Devonshire-class CA
E - Enterprise-class CL
L - Leander-class CL

THE BRITISH ARMY​

Home Army

Aldershot Command - 1st and 2nd Infantry Divisions - Bristol
Southern Command - 3rd Infantry Division - Portsmouth
Northern Command - 5th Infantry Division - Sheffield

Middle East Command - Cairo

7th and 8th Infantry Divisions

India Service

1st Indian Division - Delhi
2nd Indian Division - Jalpur
3rd Indian Division - Rayalpindi
4th Indian Division - Lahore
5th Indian Division - Gilgit
6th Indian Division - Calcutta
7th Indian Division - Lucknow
8th Indian Division - Dacca
9th Indian Division - Hyderabad
10th Indian Division - Bangalore
11th Indian Division - Bombay
12th Indian Division - Ouetta

Colonial Service

1st Kenyan Colonials (M) - Mankasa
2nd Kenyan Colonials (M) - Kismayo
1st, 2nd, and 3rd Sudanese Colonials (M) - Bur Sudan
1st Tanzanian Colonials (M) - Dar es Salaam
2nd Tanzanian Colonials (M) - Tabaru
1st Ugandan Colonials (M) - Entebbe
2nd Ugandan Colonials (M) - Naintu

Garrisons

Ceylon Defense Force - Colombo
Gilbraltar Defense Force - Gilbraltar
Hong Kong Defense Force - Hong Kong
Malta Defense Force - Malta
Singapore Defense Force - Singapore

The Royal Air Force​

Home Force

3 squadrons Wellesleys (strategic bombers)
2 squadrons Battles (tactical bombers)
3 squadrons Gladiators (fighters)

Far East Air Force

1 squadron Battle

Indian Air Command

1 squadron Battle

Middle East Air Command

1 squadron Battle

Naval Air Service

3 squadrons Swordfish (torpedo bombers)
[HMS Courageous, HMS Furious, HMS Eagle]

 

[Mettermrck]

10 Downing Street - January 19, 1936

"President Roosevelt went on to add that 'as a consistent part of a clear policy, the United States is following a twofold neutrality toward any and all nations which engage in wars not of immediate concern to the Americas.' This concluded the President's Address to the American Congress of January 3rd."

Baldwin nodded. "About what I would expect. The United States exceeds all of Europe in the manufacture and distribution of protestation and ambivalence."

There was some chuckling in the room. "You know very well, Stanley, that they will not be of help to us in Ethiopia. Oh, I received this cable this morning. Emperor Selassie's formally requesting a League committee of inquiry, to, as he puts it, 'inquire into the manner in which hostilities were being con_ducted by both belligerents.' Awfully fair of the fellow. As for the Americans? Roosevelt's merely taking the long position," Eden, the Foreign Secretary, put in.

"Well, enough of the Americans. Do you have any more on the Japanese, Henry" Chamberlain leaned forward to refill his glass.

Henry Symington, one of many Cabinet clerks, ruffled through his papers.

"Here, sir. This is the Japanese Ambassador's statement of the 16th. He says that 'as it has become sufficiently clear at today's session of the First Committee that the basic principles embodied in our pro_posal for a comprehensive limitation and reduction of naval armaments cannot secure general support, we regret to state that we cannot subscribe, for the reasons we have repeatedly set forth, to the plans of quantitive limitation submitted by the other Delegations.'"

"Codswallop," interjected Sir Samuel Hoare, the First Lord. "The Japanese are simply maneuvering for an excuse to pull out of naval limitation all together. They've been flexing their muscles in Manchuria for years, and no doubt want to seek other horizons."

"Perhaps you're a mite outspoken, Samuel," said Chamberlain. "I am sure the Japanese are given to frustration, much as we, at the progress of talks on naval arms. This is no time to be contemplating anything rash. We will leave it to the good officers of Mr. Eden here to consult with the Japanese and bring them back to the table."

The room grew quiet, as most knew how feeble this hope was. Yet no one wished to voice their displeasure, for fear of shattering the fragile hope.

Just then a loud knock was heard on the door.

"Who is that, Henry? Go and see it is. I really do detest all this bother. How on earth we ever get our business done, I am at a loss to explain," Baldwin scowled as he eyed the door.

There was whispering and soon Symington returned with a young man nervously clutching some papers. A messenger, then.

"Well, speak up, lad! You've already done the damage, now tell us why you've so boldly interrupted a Cabinet meeting?" Baldwin said.

"P..P..Prime Minister, it is the King. He's n-not well. They think he's d--dy-----" And he needed to say no more. The King's attacks of bronchitis were well known.

As the rest of the Cabinet scrambled for papers and made to rush out the door, Baldwin simply sat, stunned.

"My God."

 

[Mettermrck]

God Save the King!​

King George V, suffering from recurring bouts of bronchitis, died on January 20, 1936 at Sandringham in Norfolk. His body was transported to Westminster Abbey for the lying-in-state, where thousands of grief-stricken spectators turned up to file past their late King’s coffin and pay their final respects to their sovereign. In a private ceremony in the late hours of January 27th, his four sons – Edward, George, Albert, and Henry, stood vigil at each corner of their father’s coffin.

King George V’s coffin lies in state in Westminster Abbey

On the next day, the 28th, King George V’s final journey began as his funeral procession slowly wound its way from Westminster Abbey to St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

Military honor guards lead the funeral procession to St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for the ecumenical service

Foreign heads of state and dignitaries also marched in the procession in tribute to the late King

The procession arrived at St. George’s Chapel,

The royal procession arrives at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle

where a final service was held and the coffin was interred alongside that of his father, King Edward VII.

Funeral service and interment

George V was born June 3, 1865, the second son of Edward VII and Alexandra. His early education was somewhat insignificant as compared to that of the heir apparent, his older brother Albert. George chose the career of professional naval officer and served competently until Albert died in 1892, upon which George assumed the role of the heir apparent. He married Mary of Teck in 1893, who bore him four sons and one daughter.

George ascended the throne in the midst of a constitutional crisis: the budget controversy of 1910. Tories in the House of Lords were at odds with Liberals in the Commons pushing for social reforms. When George agreed to create enough Liberal peerages to pass the measure the Lords capitulated and gave up the power of absolute veto, resolving the problem officially with passage of the Parliament Bill in 1911. The first World War broke out in 1914, during which George made several visits to the front; on one such visit, George's horse rolled on top of him, breaking his pelvis - George remained in pain for the rest of his life from the injury. The worldwide depression of 1929-1931 deeply affected England, prompting the king to persuade the heads of the three political parties (Labour, Conservative and Liberal) to unite into a coalition government.

The relationship between England and the rest of the Empire underwent several changes. An independent Irish Parliament was established in 1918 after the Sinn Fein uprising in 1916, and the Government of Ireland Act (1920) divided Ireland along religious lines. Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa demanded the right of self-governance after the war, resulting in the creation of the British Commonwealth of Nations by the Statute of Westminster in 1931. India was accorded some degree of self-determination with the Government of India Act in 1935.
George will be succeeded his eldest son as King Edward VIII, whose accession is dated from January 20th, with a coronation ceremony to be scheduled for the near future.

The United Kingdom's new monarch, King Edward VIII

 

[Mettermrck]

6th February 1936

Baldwin: "Ah, Leslie, good of you to drop by. You have the report, I trust?"

Leslie Hore-Belisa, Minister of Transport: "Yes I do, Prime Minister. These figures have driven me positively scatty, but I believe I've made some sense of them."

Economic Resource Report​

Domestic​

Glasgow – 60 coal
Edinburgh – 60 coal
Newcastle – 520 coal, 80 steel
Manchester – 60 coal
Sheffield – 60 coal, 120 steel
Cardiff – 280 coal
Birmingham – 60 coal, 80 steel

Totals – 1100 coal, 280 steel

Colonial​

Freetown – 10 oil, 25 rubber
Lagos – 15 rubber
Port Harcourt – 15 rubber
Tabora – 15 rubber
Mangalore – 80 steel
Calicut – 28 rubber
Colombo – 83 rubber
Calcutta – 80 coal, 40 steel
Moulmein – 23 rubber
Kota Bahru – 365 rubber
Kuala Lumpur – 403 rubber
Kuching – 23 rubber
Bandan Seri Bangaman – 23 rubber, 7 oil
Jesselten – 23 rubber, 18 oil
Port of Spain – 20 oil
Kuwait – 20 coal, 26 oil

Totals – 80 coal, 120 steel, 1031 rubber, 81 oil

Chamberlain: "Do you have any recommendations for us?"

Hore-Belisha: "A few, actually. I was discussing these with my assistant, Mr. Vandelay, just this morning. Essentially, the critical task will be the amount of transport. We would need over a thousand merchantmen to harness the true potential of our economic empire. In the meantime, we have to prioritize. And, hoping I don't state the obvious, that means rubber. Malaysian rubber."

Chamberlain: "Are you proposing we produce more merchant vessels?"

Hore-Belisha: "Not at this time, Mr. Chancellor. I believe if we devote the bulk of our merchant fleet to bringing in rubber, then we'll have solved our primary deficiency - the lack of resources at home. I would also add the oil is of vital importance and will need to be stockpiled immediately. As you can see, Kuwait and Port of Spain are good areas to run shipping from."

Baldwin: "Very good, very good, Leslie. You have our thanks. I think we can implement these plans immediately. Such a minimum of fuss. Speaking of fuss...Samuel, I believe you wished to say something."

Samuel Hoare, First Lord of the Admiralty: "Just thought it would be good to present our own figures at the same time Leslie brings his in. Now, you've just heard him say he'd need over a thousand merchantmen to bring in all of our economic resources. That begs the question of what the Royal Navy could do to adequately protect them."

Baldwin: "Surely you're not suggesting more rearmament? Just think of the cost, Stanley, not to mention the unlikelihood of our being at war anytime soon. What are we talking about here?"

Hoare: "Nothing radical, I assure you, Prime Minister. The Admiralty is well satisfied with the '36 Naval Estimate. The two battleships will be laid down within a month, and the carrier soon after. My worries are for our destroyer force. We have only seventeen squadrons of them, and precisely zero for commerce duties. I think the new Estimates must include some provisions for destroyer construction."

Chamberlain: "That would put an undue strain on the budget, Stanley. And just last week you were screaming that you had to have your battleships to face these Italian...'monstrosities', you said."

Hoare: "Littorio and Vittoria Veneto exceed 45,000 tons! Far beyond treaty limits."

Baldwin: "Italy didn't sign the latest treaty."

Hoare: "Neither did Japan. Yet our own battleships are confined to 35,000 tons. And 14-inch guns?"

Chamberlain: "They will more than do the job. It is important for Britain to maintain her treaty commitments. Now as for these destroyers? We'll talk about them."

Baldwin: "Well-spoken, Mr. Chamberlain. And now I simply must retire. The latest reports from Ethiopia are coming in and I need to review them. It's a poor night for Mr. Selassie, I fear!"

 

[Mettermrck]

8th February 1936

Inskip: "Lindemann tells me that Winston was more than a bit disappointed at not getting my job. I think after giving the House Address to King Edward, he expected to be in the position to attain a Cabinet post at last."

Baldwin: "Well, that's Winston's problem. I am not about to bend to the whim of a few...disruptive elements...and certainly not within my own party. No, I chose you, Thomas, because you are the best choice for these times. Ah, Mr. Cooper, how good to see you. Please, come in, come in. Thomas and I were having a chat about...party relations."

Cooper: "I see. Well, sir, you asked to bring by Surrey's report this evening?"

Baldwin: "Yes, indeed. I want to get a hands-on appraisal of the situation in Abyssinia."

Cooper: "Major-General Surrey commands the 2nd Kenyan Colonials, based at Kismayo, just west of the border of Italian Somaliland. In fact, it's less than one hundred miles from Mogadishu - well-placed to gather information."

Baldwin: "Excellent. Let me see...ah, a map. Here, let Thomas get a good view of it."

Early Italian thrusts into eastern Abyssinia, February 1936​

Cooper: "The key to the Italian campaign in Abyssinia will be the eastern front, where the terrain is more open and there is more ground for the Ethiopians to defend. What's worse, their Emperor Selassie has only 2 divisions on hand to provide a defense, versus almost 9 Italian. What Surrey's reporting is a two-pronged Italian attack by two armies, under the command of Generals Guidi and Barbieri-Aldo. The former is senior. We have little information on either."

Baldwin: "So why doesn't the Emperor shift troops here to..."

Cooper: "Dagabur, sir. The Italians have a presence in Eritrea, to the northwest, another 10 divisions under Marshal Bastico. Selassie has only 6 divisions left to protect that front, under his generals Imru and Mulugueta. Bastico is a better commander, with better access to supplies. If he pushes forward into Makale or Gondar, then the capital is exposed. It's an awful choice for Emperor Selassie to make."

Baldwin: "Well, we shall do something about that. Eden tells me that the League Committee of Eighteen is closer to a decision on the sanctions. Only two weeks ago they appointed a committee of experts to look at the feasibility of sanctions on oil exports. Let's see, the committee wants to investigate '. . . with a view to submitting an early report . . . on the effectiveness of the extension of measures of embargo to the above mentioned commodities,' meaning oil of course."

Inskip: "A bit slow, don't you think, Stanley?"

Baldwin: "Hah, that's what the First Lord told me. Yet we can't push these things. There are rules and the League is the best way to get a consensus on the issue. Now, we know Mussolini is worried. Just a couple days ago, his so-called Fascist Grand Council passed a resolution stating that foreign trade is a 'function of public interest which justifies direct control on the part of the Corporative State.' You see? He knows how effective the sanctions will be. If Selassie holds out, we'll bring the proper pressure to bear."

Inskip: "Hmm, yes, of course."

Cooper: "Will the Americans agree? They hold a strong position on oil."

Baldwin: "That's a matter of foreign relations, Mr. Cooper, not of the War Department. I suspect we'll find President Roosevelt to be amenable. He's just concluded this Chaco business with Bolivia and Paraguay so he'll be in a mood to move against other conflicts. Now, anything else we need to discuss? Lucy will have my hide if I am late for dinner. We're having an evening meal in honor of the new Egyptian King, Faruq. And also to mourn the passing of his father, Fu'ad, last week. "

Egypt's new monarch, King Faruq​

Inskip: "Of course. Mr. Eden wanted to pass another note along on the Peking issue. The Japanese are pushing their diplomatic influence there and he wants your leave to 'push back'. Mr. Eden's words, sir."

Baldwin: "Hmm. The Japanese want to legitimize their holdings in Manchuria, I suspect. Tell Anthony if he can do so quietly, and diplomatically, to assert our interests.

Inskip: "And finally, this business with Poland."

Cooper: "Enigma?"

Baldwin: "I'm surprised you're in the loop, Mr. Cooper, but yes. We're not sure what it is. The Poles seem awfully interested in crypto...oh whatever, I hate the word. Inskip here thinks it's important."

Inskip: "I was only suggesting we look into the matter...with discretion, of course."

Cooper: "I only know what we're able to pick up from Polish sources but this Rejewski might be on to something."

Marian Rejewski, Polish mathematician working on breaking Enigma​

Baldwin: "Naturally, you would think so. And now if you'll excuse me, I simply must prepare for this evening."

Cooper: "Of course, sir, excuse me."

Inskip: "Let's go, Duff. And bring that report you were telling me about, the Canadian one."

Cooper: "McNaughton's doctrine on encirclement?"

Inksip: "Yes, yes, I might consider passing this along to our armored contingents. Awfully nice of the Canadians. Remind me to thank them one of these days."

It was the Canadians who provided valuable assistance in the development of early British armor doctrines - in this picture, British forces practice encirclement maneuvers in early 1936​

 

[Mettermrck]

German troops march into the Rhineland - March 1936​

3 March 1936

Foreign Office Memorandum, Anthony Eden - Excerpts

Herr Hitler's action is alarming because of the fresh confirmation which it affords of the scant respect paid by German Governments to the sanctity of treaties . . . by reoccupying the Rhineland he has deprived us of the possibility of making to him a concession which might otherwise have been a useful bargaining counter in our hands in the general negotiations with Germany which we had it in contemplation to initiate. . . . .

We must discourage any military action by France against Germany. A possible course which might have its advocates would be for the Locarno signatories to call upon Germany to evacuate the Rhineland. We must beware lest the French public, if further irritated or frightened, get restless at such a slow and indecisive action and demand retaliatory action of a military character such, for instance, as the reoccupation of the Saar. Such a development must be avoided if possible.

The essential thing will be to induce or cajole France to accept negotiations with Germany. The trouble is that we are in a bad position to browbeat her into what we think reasonableness, because, if she wishes to do so, she can always hold us to our Locarno obligations and call upon us to join with her in turning the German forces out of the Rhineland. The strength of our position lies in the fact that France is not in the mood for a military adventure of this sort. . . .


Baldwin sighed. "Herr Hitler is messing things up, Anthony. We'll need to go slow with this one. I want you to work with the French, keep them calm. The last thing we want is for this business to explode. They're already unsettled by this Blum business. They've dissolved the Camelots du Roi and friends, and are very much in an anti-fascist mood. Just be careful when you speak to their ministers, Anthony. Anything else troubling you?"

Eden: "A note from our Consul in Mexico City. Lombardo's going ahead with this labor union, apparently with Cardenas' blessing. CTM."

Baldwin: "CTM?"

Eden: "Yes, the...ahem...Confeder...er...ación de Traba...uh...jadores de Mexico. I'm afraid my Spanish is a trite rusty, minister."

Baldwin: "Quite alright. Any implications for us?"

Eden: "Just that it might distract Mr. Roosevelt from the business with the oil sanctions. The United States has been known for its, shall we say, 'protective nature', when it comes to that hemisphere."

Baldwin: "Hmm. The League committee on oil experts says that with the help of the United States, an embargo would become effective in three and a half months. Most unfortunate. We'll need the United States on this one. What about that coal business?"

Eden: "German shipments of coal to Italy have increased significantly, no doubt to show solidarity between fellow strongmen. It's very disappointing because it undermines the effectiveness of League attempts to curtail oil shipments."

Baldwin: "Incorporate something regarding this in the letter we're handing to the German government. One more thing to express our displeasure at."

Eden: "Oh, Duff Cooper wanted me to pass this along to you. It's from the Chief of Staff."

Baldwin: "So what's he want now?"

Eden: "The latest from Kenya. Here."

Baldwin: "Good, good. So Selassie made it to the mountains after all. Plucky fellow, that Emperor."

Eden: "Indeed. Now I have something on that Watanabe business in Japan..."

 

[Mettermrck]

1 April 1936

Baldwin: "So the 'Young Marshal has arrested Chiang. Interesting...a major policy shift? I thought our Mister Chang Hsueh-liang was moving against Mao."

Eden: "Most definitely a policy shift, minister. From our sources, Chiang was very upset at Chang's lack of progress against the Communists. He flew to Sian to move things along, only to find himself arrested. The latest word is that Chiang has been made to sign off on some sort of arrangement. One that involves forgoing conflict against the Communists and combining against the Japanese threat."

Baldwin: "Do you think Chiang will comply?"

Eden: "In the short-term, yes. He'll do whatever's necessary to free himself of his embarassing position. If the Japanese keep quiet, I suspect Chiang will revert to his old ways in a couple years. If the Japanese present a threat, then we might see the Communists left alone for the moment."

Baldwin: "A situation Mao would no doubt appreciate. Good work, Anthony. It was a wise decision to combat Japanese influence in Peking, I see. Any other regional worries?"

Eden: "None at the moment. I thought you might appreciate a copy of the terms poor Chiang was forced to concede. A highly-placed source of ours was present at that meeting and was able to summarize its main points. Here's the document"

1. to reorganize the Kuomintang and the National Government, expel the pro-Japanese group and admit anti-Japanese elements;

2. to release the patriotic leaders in Shanghai and all other political prisoners, and guarantee the freedoms and rights of the people;


3. to end the policy of "suppressing the Communists" and enter into an alliance with the Red Army to resist Japan;


4. to convene a national salvation conference, representing all parties, groups, sections of the population and armies, to decide on the policy of resisting Japan and saving the nation;


5. to enter into co-operation with countries sympathetic to China's resistance to Japan; and


6. to adopt other specific ways and means to save the nation.


Baldwin: "Very well. Ethiopia. Any response to the committee proposals?"

Eden: "Ethiopia is willing to submit their disputes to the League Committee. No surprise there. Let's see, they say that '. . . even before the outbreak of war, we did our best to ensure peace by equitable conciliation in conformity with the spirit of the Covenant . . .' and so on and so forth. The usual phrases."

Baldwin: "Indeed. Though the Italians remain mute?"

Cooper: "I suspect, gentlemen, that we'll hear from them after Bastico parades through Adis Ababa. I will say, minister, that I am very uncomfortable with these reports of atrocities. The Ethiopians are mentioning 'gas', sir."

Baldwin: "Duff, you know as I do that both sides in a war present these forms of outrageous claims which, until substantiated, should not be acted upon. Once we bring the Italians to the peace table, then we can see about sending a committee to investigate these claims. But I am not about to pressure the Italians with these claims of 'poison gas usage' until we have some hard facts!"

Cooper: "Of course, minister. My apologies."

Baldwin: "Right then. Now, Mr. Eden, the heart of the matter. What say the Germans?"

Eden: "Well, as the Cabinet knows, we presented our proposals to the Germans on the 19th, reemphasizing our rejection of the German move and our findings that Germany is in violation of Article 43 of the Versailles Treaty and Article 1 of the Locarno Pact. In the spirit of cooperation, we did present compromise proposals to the German government, basically offered Germany a Rhine buffer zone, air and nonaggression pacts, mutual assistance agreements, revision of the Rhineland, and an international conference on security, arms, economic re_lations, and her return to the League."

MacDonald: "Now, Stanley, since you're the man in charge I generally allow you full reign with no word from me on the matter. Yet it seems to me that we are rewarding Germany for an aggressive act."

Baldwin: "One could see it that way, Ramsay, I'm sure. Yet by offering the prospect of negotiations, we temper the anger of France and avoid any....messy....situations in Western Europe. Anthony?"

Eden: "Yes, sir. Germany rejected our proposals. Here's their statement. 'The proposal of the draft treaty which was handed to, the German Government by the British Secretary of State, Mr. Eden, contains not one of the necessary conditions for the successful organization of a really lasting peace, since it is based, in the first place, on a new discrimination which is intolerable for a great nation and on a further attempt once more to lay down Germany's inequality of rights with the other states. . . .'. And yes I am even mentioned by name in their disappointing maneuver."

Cooper: "You're just the messenger, Anthony, not the target."

Eden: "Hmm, yes. Anyways, the Germans immediately offered their own proposals. A 19-point plan, whose main points are an assurance on troop movement in the Rhineland, a 25‑year nonaggression pacts, an air pact, national plebiscites to ratify the agreement, a willing_ness to reenter the League of Nations, and negotiations on colonial equality of rights."

Ormsby-Gore: "Good luck on the colonial issue, Mr. Eden. Australia has already emphatically any ideas for returning Mandates to Germany. 'The return of the territories under Australian man_date is unthinkable. Every country is entitled to examine international issues in the light of its own security and national interest. New Guinea's geographical position, its natural harbors and facilities for naval and military aircraft, are of strategic value to Australia .' Their words, and strong ones at that."

Eden: "Well, I doubt anyone was considering concessions on the colonial issue anyhow."

Baldwin: "Well, do what you can, Anthony, to bring the Germans and the Italians to the table."

MacDonald: "The Germans are stalling for time."

Baldwin: "Time works on the side of the peacemakers, Ramsay, as you shall see. Any last snippets, Anthony?"

Eden: "Paez's government in Ecuador is setting up an Academy of Artillery. As you know, the Italians have had a military mission in that country since 1922."

Baldwin: "I doubt that's anything to fear. And most importantly, that's on Mr. Roosevelt's home turf. Finally, I believe our esteemed Air Minister has something to add."

Swinton: "Just a quick note, gentlemen, before we retire. As I reported earlier, we've recently issued contracts to pursue a short and medium-range fighter. I mentioned then that the prototype Rolls-Royce engine, designated the 'PV-12', was close to production and we wanted to take advantage of it."

Cooper: "Yes, the high horsepower engine, 910hp?"

Swinton: "Actually, their newest model is even better, as you can see in this summary."

Rolls-Royce fighter engine, to be improved and dubbed the 'Merlin'


Cooper: "And the new evaporative cooling system? You sticking with that? I heard there were problems."

Swinton: "Some thought it was a suspect method. Rolls-Royce is procuring supplies of ethylene glycol to act as coolant."

Baldwin: "Argh, gentlemen, you two need to take these technical terminology somewhere else. I'm getting a slight headache. Neville, I trust you'll explain to me what that all meant later on?"

Chamberlain: "Most certainly, sir."

 

[Mettermrck]

1 May 1936

Simon: "Two dead, and another three wounded. And only one unconfirmed death of one of the attackers. They managed to escape police reprisal."

Chamberlain: "This is only going to go on and on."

Eden: "Does the Home Secretary believe this represents an escalation in their tactics?"

Simon: "Most certainly. And what makes it worse is that both the IRA and the RUC are becoming more boisterous in their propaganda. They are recruiting, and the violence is spreading. Not only the ambush at Londonderry, but the shooting at Armagh, the raid in southern Belfast, and also this bombing at a public cafe in Larne. This is becoming serious, gentlemen."

Baldwin: "Very well, Mr. Simon, very well. Does anyone have any constructive proposals in dealing with the situation?"

Cooper: "Garrisons. This is fast becoming more than a nuisance, Prime Minister. We send a division to northern Ireland and we squeeze the IRA until their attacks cease."

Simon: "Oh really? And I suppose the Irish would simply stand aside? Garrisons of regular troops would only incense the population. You would increase the scope of IRA influence in northern Ireland, rather than the opposite. And you would create vast resentment, not just in Fenian circles...but Orange as well."

Baldwin: "I'm inclined to agree with Mr. Simon here, Duff. Troops are out. Anyone else?"

Halifax: "If I may, Prime Minister?"

Baldwin: "Ahhh...Lord Halifax, how nice of you to join us. It's been too long. Please, continue."

Halifax: "No doubt all of us know of the words of the Chief Constable recently. He wants more powers of restriction, particularly against parades and public processions which he thinks might lead to violence. I believe it could be a necessary step."

Baldwin: "The Public Order Act? Well, it's less imposing than garrisons. And it does show this government as doing something. Any other thoughts on Ireland?"

Chamberlain: "I think it's the feasible solution, Stanley. We do our best to move the bill along, that's all."

Baldwin: "Good, good. Anthony, you had something on the Austrian business?"

Eden: "Yes, and also something on the Germans. They are apparently 'expanding' their horizons."

Eden: "I was speaking to Mr. Simon yesterday about the odd yet close relationship between Germany and Afghanistan of all places. And this is not just supposition. We know, for example, that the Afghani Olympic teams received special 'royal' treatment by the Germans. Several Afghani officers are training in Germany, and now Germany has arranged shipments of supplies as well as crucial military technology. Unfortunately, the specifics on this are still beyond us at this time. My question is. What is the ultimate purpose here?"

Cooper: "It's a two-edged sword, Neville. Afghanistan could conduct raids into both the southern regions of the Soviet Union or even India. While not a conventional threat, it would still tie down garrison troops along the border. If the Germans ever ended up in conflict with one of us, it would be a useful ally to have."

Chamberlain: "I don't see it. It would be uncharacteristic of the Germans. Now I would really like to hear about Austria, Anthony."

Eden: "Yes, of course. As we all know, Austria has recently introduced compulsory service for her military. Their official reason was '. . . because of economy, sovereign rights, preservation of the existing European order, failure of the other signatories of the peace treaty of St. Germain to disarm, and because of its social value for physical, moral, and patriotic education.'"

Cooper: "And naturally, none of us believe that."

Baldwin: "Duff, please."

Eden: "Anyways, soon afterwards the governments of Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia, and Romania, the so-called 'Little Entente' issued an official protest to the Austrian decision as follows: 'The military regulations for Austria, laid down in Part V of the Treaty of St. Germain, are altered. This alteration, which has been effected by a unilateral denunciation of the relevant portion of the treaty of St. Germain [Article 119], represents a manifest infringement of the military clauses of the above-mentioned treaty.' They claim that this 'represents a negation of international obligations.'"

Cooper: "I would construe it as a reaction to events. The Germans have just marched into the Rhineland with no French reaction. German rearmament and bellicose attitude towards Central Europe have no doubt alarmed the Austrians. I wouldn't condemn Austria off-hand."

Chamberlain: "Well, I certainly regret the disruption of the peace Austria is bringing to the table. I simply wish they had chosen a more diplomatic approach."

Baldwin: "Hmm, yes, well, all we can do is let the countries scream at each other. I am not about to involve Britain in such an affair. Now, anything on Ethiopia? What's the military situation, Duff?"

Cooper: "Surrey reports an Italian breakthrough at Harar. Barbieri Aldo's corps launched a rather unimaginative attack that still managed to overwhelm Selassie's defenders and the Ethiopian Emperor is in full retreat to his capital, Addis Ababa. Most of the Ethiopian troops are simply building defenses where they sit, with little to no coordination. As you can see, there is no longer a solid defensive line for them to hold. And the Italians are pressing forward against Selassie. I would venture to say that Ethiopia won't survive much longer, Prime Minister."

Italian aircraft bombs Ethiopian targets east of Addis Ababa - April 1936

Eden: "Also, Prime Minister, the League Committee of Thirteen has decided to admit failure in bringing reconciliation between Italy and Ethiopia. The Ethiopians rejected the Italian terms, and there's no common ground for compromise."

Baldwin: "So where does that leave us?"

Chamberlain: "We've done all we can, Prime Minister. Italy can still be brought to task for the means of her conquest, naturally."

Eden: "Yes, I presented a memorandum to the Committee regarding Italy's usage of gas and its violation of the 1925 protocol prohibiting chemical warfare. From Geneva - 'The League has appointed a committee of jurists to examine the protocols of 1925 and to consider measures member states should take as punishment for violation, and to determine what organ was competent for deciding the question of violation.'"

Baldwin: "Good, good, so the issue is well in hand. Now, it's been a long day, gentlemen, and I appreciate your patience. Any final thoughts before we recess?"

Eden: "That last memo on Mexico. It is confirmed that President Cardenas has deported Calles to the United States. I will be meeting tomorrow with the Turkish Ambassador, who wants to continue our discussions on the '1923 Conventions'."

 

[Mettermrck]

1st June 1936 - Hull, England

Hoare: "Impressive, Admiral. Very nice and tidy. I see the first few ships have docked already."

Rear Admiral G.K. Carver, Reserve Fleet: "Thank you, sir. I estimate, with the current docking facilities, I can support up to twenty destroyers in the harbor, particularly of the newer models."

Hoare: "Good, good. Glad to hear it. How long would it take to shift your force from mothball to full readiness?"

Carver: "Well, it depends on the size of the force you want me to keep in reserve. A few destroyers might be a matter of days. Twenty or more would be weeks, sir. Not to mention if I have to expand things here. Sir......"

Hoare: "You're not good enough to hide things from me, Admiral. What is it?"

Carver: "Well, it's this mission, sir. Essentially to assemble newly produced destroyers in Hull and----------"

Hoare: "And be a glorified nanny to a bunch of destroyers? Not up to your ideas of naval glory, Admiral Carver?"

Carver: "Well, I------"

Hoare: "Admiral, listen. I don't often indulge my staff in explanations but I'll make an exception in this case because you're new. There is no glorious posting in the Royal Navy right now. Our fleet, spread throughout the globe, is in dockyards, and except for the occasional maneuver, rarely sees anything like the glory you seek. The government's made it very clear how much of a premium oil consumption is, and I am forced to curtail deployments."

"Now, in your case, you know how vital it is for Britain to guard its merchants in times of war. Last time we did it with convoys, this time...who knows? But you and I both know that the destroyer will play a vital role. I believe in being prepared, even if it means that the ship themselves sit in dockyards all day, guarded by...well, you, Admiral Carver. But if war comes...we'll have the ships there."

Carver: "I see, sir."

Hoare: "You need to understand the picture. This morning I received an order from Minister Inskip, asking me to ship quantities of coal and oil to our Dominions. That's four convoys, Admiral - to Quebec, Capetown, Sydney, and Wellington. You have the materials, and also the logistics of getting them there. That, Admiral Carver, is the Royal Navy's operational glory at this time."

Carver: "My apologies, sir."

The Royal Navy was forced to compromise its combat
effectiveness in the mid-1930's - while it increased its modern
destroyer force, it paid dearly in cutbacks in operations and
materials.


London

Mussolini: "Italy's policy in Albania is quite clear and absolutely straight_forward. Its sole object is to preserve and to respect the inde_pendent status of this small country, which for centuries has lived in friendship with us." Doc. Int. Affairs 1935, Vol. II, p.483. May 27, 1936


Chamberlain: "Not surprising, considering how much Benito has invested in his Ethiopian conflict."

Eden: "Well, Albania is besides the point. Mussolini is trying to distract the world from the real issues."

Baldwin: "He is succeeding, Anthony, because I've been waiting for your report on Abyssinia."

Eden: "My apologies, Prime Minister. I'm sure Ministers Cooper and Inskip can handle the military tactics far better than I. Yet it is quite clear the Italians remain on the verge of total victory in Ethiopia. Duff?"

Cooper: "Yes, sir. The Italians did not launch their primary attack at the capital, Addis Ababa, as we had anticipated. They sent the bulk of their southern corps under General Barbieri Aldo north into Makale province where they linked up with a second corps under General Grossi. With a combined nine divisions, they defeated the Ethiopian force of two divisions under Imru, and he's now in retreat. Logistically, this move is sound as it allows both Italian groups to cooperate. Grossi now has overall command of the eastern front, we believe."

Baldwin: "So it's down to the capital now?"

Cooper: "I'm afraid so, Prime Minister. Selassie has two battered divisions. Counting Imru and their reserves, they can muster six at best. In the north, there's rumors that Bastico's 2nd Army is coming south out of Eritrea, another seven divisions. That should pin down Mulugueta's defenders and allow Grossi an open road into the capital."

Baldwin: "Your best estimates, or your worse? Inskip?"

Inskip: "Two months sir, maybe three."

Baldwin: "And the League Committee is stalled. Anthony, anything in that direction?"

Eden: "No, minister, they're bogged down in procedures and now these 'gas' allegations have only slowed things down."

Chamberlain: "We did what we could, gentlemen. Mussolini won't find his way back into the world community so easily."

The League Committees struggled throughout early 1936 to find
a peaceful means of resolving the conflict between Ethiopia and
Italy


Baldwin: "Very well. You had something you wanted to mention about China, Anthony?"

Eden: "Yes, sir, part of my report this morning. Let me just give a short briefing on the Iraqi report and then I'll close with the Chinese situation."

Eden: "The government in Iraq is seeking to complete the railway into Turkey. The link to Mosul from Baghdad would be use of furthering our interests in the Middle East region. I forsee minimal diplomatic implications, and definitely some economic positives, namely increased shipments of materials."

Baldwin: "Hardly needed to bother me at all, Anthony. Now enough of that. What is Germany doing in China?"

Eden: "It's not a new development, sir, but it is ominous. Herr Hitler has appointed Alexander von Falkenhausen to head the German military mission in China. It's been in place since 1934, but Falkenhausen's involvement signals an increase in the program."

Baldwin: "How so?"

Eden: "Increased supplies, for one. We already know that German research in basic plastics, heavy machine guns, etc. will be passed on for Chiang to utilize. This move makes Germany more prominent in China, more active."

Alexander von Falkenhausen
Head of the German Mission in China, 1936


Baldwin: "What do we know of the man?"

Eden: "Falkenhausen? Let's see. During the Boxer Rebellion, he volunteered for the German military expedition...served in the 91st Oldenburg Infantry Regiment. Military attache in Tokyo from 1900-1914. He's been in China since '34, along with von Seeckt."

Baldwin: "Damn. First Japan, now Germany. See to our affairs, Anthony. I don't want China to forget where its best interests lie. And please, will you stop including bits about Mexico in your daily reports?"

Eden: "But, sir, I thought Calles supporters overthrowing Cardenas was important enough to note----"

Baldwin: "In Mr. Roosevelt's daily report. Look, alright, include, but don't expect me to comment on it. Cardenas...Calles? Unless they threaten Belize or something, I don't see the bother."

Chamberlain: "Calles' government is far more fascist-leaning than Cardenas' was. I agree it's an American affair, but I don't like the trend."

The failure of the Mexican army to put down the pro-Calles revolt
in San Luis Potosi contributed directly to the fall of Cardenas'
government and led to the return of Calles. Mexico would suffer
in the years to come.

 

[Mettermrck]

1 July 1936 - London

Baldwin: "Valera's no fool, Neville, don't forget that. He doesn't do anything for reasons that aren't practical. If he's outlawing the IRA, he's doing it to secure his base of power and to protect Fianna Fail from any inroads by them or any other groups."

Chamberlain: "Well, it's good news for us, nevertheless."

Baldwin: "It looks good on the surface, Neville. Yet I can't help thinking it might agitate the Irish groups more than calm them. And anything which tightens Valera's control? Let's just say it'll remain on my mind in the coming months."

Eamon De Valera, President of the Executive Council, Irish Free State​

Chamberlain: "Well, at least it'll give the Sinn Fein fellows something to bark about for a time, other than us I mean."

Baldwin: "Indeed. Very well, send in the rest of the gentlemen. I suppose we can get this Cabinet meeting underway."

- Members of the Cabinet file into the room and take their seats -

Baldwin: "Welcome, gentlemen. I understand we have a light itinerary today, so I'll entertain some of your reports that I usually defer to others here. Anthony? I understand you've been delving into economics this month?"

Eden: "Something to that effect, Prime Minister. I've been following the negotiations of the German government with the Swedish and Romanian governments and between them, Germany is securing increasing stocks of oil and iron."

Cooper: "War material."

Chamberlain: "A bit ominous, Duff? Oil and iron are commodities for any economy. Certainly we import our fair share from our colonies...as it should be. I don't see the significance."

Eden: "We're hopeful that you're correct, sir. However, since we know that Herr Hitler has indeed embarked on a program of industrialization and rearmament, questions of materials and resources become very important. I just wanted to make the Cabinet aware."

Baldwin: "Hmm. How much are we talking here, Anthony?"

Eden: "Accurate measurements? Hard to come by. But our best estimates are...let's see, 5,000 units of iron, thus steel, and 5,000 units of oil. The Germans, in turn, ship 8,000 coal to Sweden. And we have good intelligence that Germany is negotiating future contracts with Sweden."

Baldwin: "I don't know, Anthony. That sort of information is useful only in times of strife and right now that is precisely what I am aiming to avoid. Speaking of strife. Mr. Inksip, Mr. Cooper...I believe you've given Abyssinia 3 months to live? Any truth to that?"

Cooper: "Uh, well, I do have the latest reports, sir. Mr. Eden was kind of enough to put me in touch with a Mr. Delambe in the Ethiopian Embassy and our information is touch more accurate this month."

Baldwin: "Well, don't stop now, man! Let me see it!"

Cooper: "It's coming down to the final attack on Addis Ababa, sir. Bastico has ten divisions in his 2nd Army based at Harar. From the reports we've received, he's detached four divisions under Barbieri Aldo to make the initial assault against Selassie's defenses. Failing that, he still has six in reserve."

Baldwin: "And Selassie has five? Fairly decent odds."

Cooper: "If the armies were comparable. However, of those five divisions, four of these, the so-called - and excuse my pronunciation - Armies of Wag, Wolloga, Shoa, and Welo, consist primarily of native fighters, militia at best. These 'armies' are primarily division strength. Selassie's best unit is the Imperial Guard, which was battered at Harar. Against four front-line Italian divisions backed by six more? Still a question of time, sir."

An official publication of the Fascist regime justifying
Italy's claims to Abyssinia (Ethiopia). Abyssinia is seen as
presenting grave danger to the Italian colonies of Eritrea and
Somalia.​

Baldwin: "Speaking of divisions. Mr. Inskip? Any news of note from our own armed forces? I trust the latest budget cuts were accepted with minimal murmur?"

Inskip: "Eh, of course, sir, of course. We should expect nothing less. The First Lord here was telling me about the new destroyers that have been produced for potential convoy duties. And I was speaking with Mr. Cooper here about...oh, dear. What was that again, Duff?"

Cooper: "Com-pewt-ers. Electromechanical ones."

Baldwin: "Dear me, such a long name. Give me the short details, Duff."

Cooper: "It has great potential for calculating sums and doing forms of arithmetic automatically. And it can keep track of this information. Marvelous stuff. After hearing what the Poles were doing with cryptography, I wanted to know more about our own efforts."

Baldwin: "As long as it doesn't cost too much, Duff."

Cooper: "Actually, Prime Minister, it's a potential savings. The ability to make calculations more quickly only makes us more efficient."

Baldwin: "I'll remember your decreased costs when we discuss the military budgets again."

Cooper: "Well, I------"

Baldwin: "Not right now, Duff."

The primitive 'basic electromechanical computer' - 1936​

Baldwin: "Alright, I have 15 minutes to spare. Anyone have any last minute tidbits?"

Eden: "Actually, sir, after the meeting, I need to see you on the Central American matter."

Baldwin: "Yes, I know, Honduras' notice of withdrawal from the 22nd."

Eden: "Not just them, sir. Nicaragua gave their notice of withdrawal from the League on the 26th."

 

[Mettermrck]

1 August 1936

Baldwin: "The what?!?"

Eden: "The Salts....joe......bad....umm, well, here's how it looks on paper. I'm afraid my Swedish is very rusty."

Baldwin: "You got two seconds to tell me what this means."

Eden: "Well, Minister, it's the preliminary labor agreement I've been mentioning in some of my past memos. And it..."

Baldwin: "Later, please. We've got big things to discuss, Anthony, and I'm afraid Joe's Bad Salt is not high on the itinerary. Make sure you've got the report from Gilbraltar with you. Ready? Let's go."

Baldwin and Eden enter the Cabinet Room.

Baldwin: "Ah, more crowded than usual today. Not surprising, considering recent developments. Welcome, gentlemen, welcome. Do sit down. Now, before we get to Spain I just want to touch on any other issues we might have of note. Abyssinia...Duff?"

Cooper: "Selassie's army is still in the field. That Italian attack we anticipated landed on Mulugueta's flank instead of the capital itself. As the map I'm passing around shows, the Ethiopian forces were easily pushed out of the Harar province. This opens up a route of advance to the west of Addis Ababa if Bastico so chooses."

Baldwin: "So more than two months after all?"

Cooper: "Yes, sir. I underestimated them, though I still do not forsee them lasting out the year."

Inskip: "Stanley, I was wondering if we could touch on the directives you issued yesterday, namely on the scale-back of destroyer production..."

Baldwin: "Ah, yes. Prioritizing, Sir Thomas. The domestic situation has caused me to consider lightening our investments in military production."

Chamberlain: "You see the Times this morning? 'A mockery of a foreign policy.'? 'Our ships are keeping our poor without sustenance?'"

Baldwin: "Oh, how they love to dramatize. It's the classic guns or butter argument. Perhaps I was a bit too lenient towards guns, and now the public is reacting. I'm afraid, Sir Thomas, that butter is the word of the day. I trust you understand?"

Inskip: "Of course, sir. I'll make the necessary adjustments."

Eden: "Oh, Minister, I forgot to give you a copy of the Austro-German agreement."

Baldwin: "Hmm, yes. Anything to be concerned about?"

Eden: "I don't believe so, sir. It's a straightforward arrangement. Germany recognizes Austria's full sovereignty and Austria, in turn, acknowledges that it is a German State and will act accordingly in its policieis. Germany promises to stay out of Austria' internal affairs. Here, it reads 'Each of these two Governments shall regard the internal political conditions of the other country, including the question of Austrian National_-Socialism, as a domestic concern of that country, upon which it will exert neither direct nor indirect influence. . . ."

Chamberlain: "Well, I'm glad to see Germany show signs of sense, at any rate."

Baldwin: "Fine, fine. Anything else, gentlemen? I know we're all anxious to discuss the Spanish situation. No? Very well, Mr. Eden, you have our full attention."

Eden "Thank you, Prime Minister. Gentlemen, the situation is far more serious than we feared. This is not, I repeat, not merely an officer's rebellion in Africa. But let me start from the beginning."

Eden: "As you know from my memo of last week, this business began on the 12th. A Spanish officer of Socialist persuasion, one Lieutenant Jose Castillo of the Guardias de Asalto (Assault Guards), was assasinated in Madrid by the Falangists, a noted right-wing organization. The next day, Castillo's friends took revenge, killing Jose Calvo Sotelo, a politician on the Right. This touched off the officer's rebellion in Morocco I advised you of earlier."

Cooper: "The Foreign Legion?"

Eden: "Among others. There were revolts in Morocco and Seville almost at the same time. Sporadic revolts followed throughout Spain. We have proclamations issued by a General Francisco Franco on the 18th, and also an Emile Mola in Navarre on the 19th. Each directed at the supposed crimes of the Popular Front government. President Azaña attempted negotiations, but with little success."

Baldwin: "So...where do we stand, Anthony?"

Eden: "It's not a rebellion, Prime Minister. It's a civil war."

Chamberlain: "A Socialist government versus a right-wing rebellion? One wonders where we stand on this."

Cooper: "Well, I can tell you where Germany will stand."

Inskip: "Or the Soviets."

Eden: "Well, yes, it's true, there are indications that both Germany and the Soviet Union are considering the provision of material resources to the rebels and the government. This is shaping up to be a protracted conflict, and an ideological one at that."

Baldwin: "Is France still staying out? I would think with her close border, that some intervention was warranted."

Eden:"Laval is wary of Blum. He's keeping them out. The French embargo on war materials has been in effect since the 25th. They're serious about staying out."

Baldwin: "I'm inclined in that direction myself. I can think of nothing we would gain by interfering in such an internal affair."

Cooper: "Even with the Germans and the Bolsheviks interfering?"

Baldwin: "Especially with them two. We interfere, and we only strain tensions with one or the other government, and that we most certainly don't want. I think our own electorate will understand, whatever the editorials are telling me."

Chamberlain: "There may be a natural sympathy towards the Spanish government, but it'll be residual at best. In time, our public will understand our commitment to European peace."

Baldwin: "I certainly hope so. Well, Anthony...how does it stand now?"

Eden: "Hard to say, Prime Minister. Our closest source of information is from our garrison in Gilbraltar, which is already on heightened alert, what with the rebels crossing into the mainland from Tangiers. The opposition appears to be coalescing around a provisional government in Burgos, in northwest Spain. A General Miguel Cabellanas is in charge. He's one of the major players in the opposition. Franco is another, as well as Falange. The question of leadership is still undecided. That'll be a good indication of what to expect in the coming conflict. The front lines are still hard to discern. There's been attacks in many places, with the rebels strongest in the northwest and southwest."

Baldwin: "Very well. We'll wait and see, and certainly keep our distance."

 

[Mettermrck]

28 August 1936

Inskip: "Sit here, Field Marshal. This shan't take long."

Montgomery-Massingbird: "Thank you, sir."

Inksip: "Now, I wanted to discuss this with you personally so there's no misunderstandings. I've take it you've heard by now?"

Massingbird: "Yes, sir, I have. I'm out and Deverell's in."

Inskip: "Of course not, Field Marshal, of course not! That's one of the reasons I wanted to hash this out between us, to clear up any misunderstandings. I take it you have questions?"

Massingbird: "I don't question orders, sir."

Inskip: *sighs* "That's not what I meant. Very well, I'll get it out in the open. We are.....rearranging....the responsibilities for the various branches of services. Now, I know you've long been an Army man and I can appreciate you sentiments on the matter. However, as my Defence Chief of Staff, your area of expertise now includes matters both airborne and naval. Yet I want someone who's sole responsibility it is to keep an eye on the Army, who will then report to you. That will be Cyril Deverell."

Massingbird: "But why? Has my service faltered in any capacity, Minister?"

Inskip: "Certainly not. In fact, I need you more than ever, Field Marshal. The oversight of the armed forces is fast becoming more political than ever, and I need a sharp military mind with me as I deal with new priorities that are being handed down by the government."

Massingbird: "Such as the cancellation of my Watchtower initiatives?"

Inskip: "Eh, yes, I'm afraid that the Prime Minister and his advisors do not see the military practicality of a fixed series of fortifications on our southern coasts, more's the pity."

Massingbird: "There will be another war with Germany. I've been saying this since the 20's. And when it comes, we need to be more prepared than we were the last time. Forts and fortifications ruled the battlefield in the last war and we must not fall behind."

Inksip: "Um, yes, well, it's opinions like these I need with me here on Downing Street when we brief the Cabinet. Deverell will be under your control. His prime function will mainly be on the nature of supply, especially reducing its consumption. The public backlash since Spain has only increased the unpopularity of our armed forces. 10% want major reductions, according to the Times."

Massingbird: "Naturally, I'll serve in any capacity you deem fit, Minister."

Inskip: "Excellent! I'm glad you're onboard with this, Field Marshal."


1 September 1936

Baldwin: "Did it work?"

Inskip: "Yes it did. The Field Marshal believes his responsibilities in government are increasing, as I'd hoped he would. I don't think he would appreciate the truth."

Baldwin: "Deverell will clean house, which is what we need in Defence right now. The Army must consume as little as possible if we're to meet the 1937 Estimates as planned."

Inskip: "Of course, Stanley, and I've given my assurances that we will meet them."

Baldwin: "Indeed. Shall we?"

- Cabinet Room -

Eden: "Before we start, Prime Minister, I want to pass along that draft you asked for previously. The French just signed off on it and it was couriered in from Paris just this morning."

Baldwin: "Good, good. A joint embargo on Spanish intervention is the right move to keep Europe quiet. Now, once Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Russia have signed, we can consider it in effect. That'll be your job, Anthony."

Eden: "Of course, sir. All nations have indicated their willingness to approve the declaration. Indeed, the Germans issued a statement last week wanting to extend it to individuals, and reduce volunteering."

Baldwin: "I see. Now, Anthony, I've been looking over your morning report and I'm a little curious about one or two items you've placed in it. First of all...what precisely is Aer Lingus?"

Eden: "It's an air service recently founded in Ireland, from the words 'aer loingeas' or 'air fleet'. First service from Dublin to Bristol, actually. I know you wanted to be kept abreast of Irish events, sir."

Baldwin: "Irish political events, Anthony!"

Eden: "I beg your pardon, sir. It is a national airline, and I believe you were concerned about de Valera's trying to reduce Irish dependence on England, sir. Indeed, there are plans to build a major airport in Dublin next year."

Baldwin: "Fair enough, Anthony, and thank you. Now, to the real business. Spain."

Spanish Offensives - The Early Offensives
Nationalist coastal thrust and Republican counterattacks​

Eden: "Gilbraltar just sent this up, sir. On the military front, things are finally coalescing into information which makes more sense. What I mean is, we can start to draw borders on the map."

Chamberlain: "I agree, the reports from Spain are very confusing, Stanley. It's hard to tell who's on what side."

Eden: "The rebels have a strong position in the south, around Cadiz and Seville, and in the northwest, at their so-called capital at Burgos. It's primarily a three-way split between the militarists, who are coming together behind this General Franco, the Carlists, who are a monarchists, and the Falange Party, a right-wing group united behind their imprisoned leader, Primo de Rivera, who was arrested last month."

Cooper: "You mentioned earlier that Germany and Italy agreed to our embargo. What of the reports that they're going ahead with intervention on behalf of the rebels? I received a memo from Gilbraltar stating that there were strong indications that the German warship Deutschland was at Ceuta, delivering bombs, and that a liner had left Hamburg bound for Spain, packed with munitions."

Eden: "At this time, we're unable to verify the truth to those rumors. I can only assume they're false or exaggerated. The same goes for the reports on Russia backing the Spanish government."

Baldwin: "Still a political mess, I see. Now what about the military front. Duff, can you make anything out yet?"

Cooper: "My information is as confused as Mr. Eden's political sources, sir. But I've contributed what I know to the map all of you are looking at. As you can see, the rebels are split between their military capital at Burgos and their positions in the south, at Malaga, Cadiz, and Seville. They've struck the first blow in this conflict. Striking east from Seville, they've marched all the way to the Mediterranean coast and are now push north. In fact, they've just seized Valencia, a key port on the eastern coast."

Baldwin: "So that's where the heavy fighting is, I see. Any reports on who's winning?"

Cooper: "Very little, sir. Both sides are primarily gearing up for the coming fight. That the rebels struck quickly explains their initial success, but they're outnumbered at Valencia, according to reports, and we expect a balance to establish itself soon. There's already a static front coming into being north of Madrid and curving east and northwest around the rebel stronghold at Saragossa. Right now the big question is whether the rebels can link up their sectors, which is what the fighting at Valencia will decide."

The early battles of the Spanish Civil War get underway outside Valencia as Republican troops drive on the city​

Baldwin: "Keep me informed. Duff, since you're focused on Spain right now, I'll leave it to Inskip to brief us on Abyssinia."

Inksip: "Of course. The latest reports General Surrey had submitted indicate that the Italians continue to build up their forces for a final push on Addis Ababa. As you can see..."

Inskip: "The Italian army has pushed the Ethiopian army into the heart of their country, in the southwest."

Cooper: "Which is a foolish move in my opinion. They should've outflanked the defenders. All they've done thus far is pushed Selassie's army into a compact mass around the capital, which only gives the Ethiopians their best chances."

Baldwin: "Well, Duff, the Ethiopians have lasted the three months. I wonder..."

Chamberlain: "That wouldn't be prudent. The League Committee has not resolved the issue and has not come up with a final proposal for sanctions. Unilateral intervention would only complicate the problem."

Baldwin: "Yet if Abyssinia continues to hold out, we simply cannot watch and wait, Neville. On the other hand, I agree, we should not consider anything.....hasty."

Chamberlain: "Precisely, Stanley. You've said it a hundred times. See if they can last out the year. Then, maybe, we can consider other options."

Baldwin: "Very well, very well. We'll wait. Alright, gentlemen, that's all we have for today. Anthony, you'd best come with me. You can finish your talk on the Swiss rearmament."

 

[Mettermrck]

1 October 1936

Baldwin: “I see Abyssinia has quieted down. I’m very much interested to know why the Italians are holding back?”

Cooper: “Their bombing of Addis Ababa continues. From the reports we get from Surrey and also from our Ethiopian friends, it appears the Italians are massing out of Eritrea, bringing up reinforcements to attack the capital from the north. That could be responsible for any delay.”

Halifax: “It is as I said this morning, Stanley. The world’s eyes are on Spain now, and Italy can afford to take its time in Africa.”

Baldwin: “Indeed. You are frighteningly correct. Well, let’s turn to what the world is really interested in. Spain. Anthony, you had some information on the Non-Intervention Agreement?”

Eden: “Well, Prime Minister, more reports of the sort from last month. On a happier note, I believe the note you sent to the French government has had some effect in...shall we say...dampening their enthusiasm for backing the Popular Front government. While I cannot vouch that France has withheld all support, as their common border with the so-called Republican territory will no doubt make for a temptation for some possible aid, even if on an unofficial level.”

Baldwin: “Well, we do what little we can to keep the French honest. And if Mr. Blum stays out of power long enough, I don’t think France will become meaningfully involved.”

Chamberlain: “How do things fare in Spain, Anthony?”

Eden: “The Republican government appears to retain the initiative. Despite the prediction of some of our own experts, the rebels, these Nationalists, lost big at Valencia. Duff, you had the briefing on that?”

Cooper: “Suffice to say, the rebels lost a division trying to seize that vital city, and it’s cost them dearly. As it stands, there’s barely any troops holding back the Republican counterattack in the south. This is the latest map we have, though it’s possible that the Republican forces have advanced even further.”

The Republican follow-up to Valencia proved disastrous for the Nationalists, as they fell into full retreat in the south.​

Eden: ”Quite right. And now, it appears that several countries are beginning to provide covert assistance on some level to the combatants. There reports from Germany and Italy and also the Soviet Union, each backing their own favorites in this conflict, despite our recently signed agreement.”

Baldwin: ”Do we have anything concrete, Anthony?”

Eden: ”Very little. I have this. It’s a photo of the Nationalist cruiser Canaris. It was recently refitted by the Italians.”

The Italian refit of the Nationalist heavy cruiser Canaris was only one sign of the failure of Non-Intervention during the Spanish Civil War​

Eden: ”There are estimates that the Italians are preparing to send over ninety aircraft t Spain, possibly more. Also hundreds of cannons, mortars, thousands of machine guns and motor vehicles. The Germans, it appears, are looking to send shipments of their own, via Portugal.”

Chamberlain: ”This is all base supposition, Anthony, and you know it. This government certainly can’t confront Italy and Germany with estimates or rumors. And a photograph of a Spanish ship being helped by Italians is not enough to convince world opinion.”

Baldwin: ”I’m inclined to agree with Neville, Anthony. We cannot afford to move too quickly on this. While no one likes to see Spain destabilized, there are the traditional worries of the nature of the Spanish government to take into question.”

Eden: ”Well, certainly the Popular Front boasts some leftist tendencies, but---“

Baldwin: ”But it would not do to appear biased towards either side. Let’s just keep our distance and work on keeping Non-Intervention in place as best we can. Now, I wanted some good news for a change, gentlemen, so I asked young Symington to give me a brief report on the recent Olympics in Berlin. I trust you’ll indulge me?”

-- polite chuckles –

Symington: ”Thought you’d like to see the medal totals, sir.”

Baldwin: ”Hmm, yes. Another reason for the Germans to gloat. Thankfully our American friends took them to task in track and field. A remarkable fellow, this Mr. Owens. Do we have any bright spots, Arthur? I suppose not...only 10th in medal totals, 14 to the United States’ 56 and Germany’s 89. Hmm...4 gold medals. Could be worse, I suppose. The 4 x 400-meter relay..ah, and Sailing. Our First Lord would be most depressed if Britain was ever to lose a medal in Sailing.”

Hoare: ”We maintain our naval traditions even in sport, Prime Minister.”

Baldwin: ”So I see. Well, thank you, young Symington. Not quite the cheery news I’d hoped for, yet not an embarrassment."

The British performance in the 1936 Berlin Olympics was not too spectacular​

Baldwin: ”Very well then. Meeting’s adjourned. Neville, Anthony, you two remain. Everyone else, I’ll see you at dinner if you’re staying. If not, I’ll see you tomorrow nice and early.”

The room clears, and the three gentlemen take up comfortable chairs near the fireplace.

Baldwin: ”Anthony, the last time I asked you this, you said it was speculation and not serious. I’m afraid with the recent coverage in the press, I’ll have to ask again. You, too, Neville. Is this serious?”

Chamberlain: ”It’s hard to say, Stanley.”

Baldwin: ”Well, it’s true enough that she accompanied the King on a cruise in the Adriatic. There are pictures of them together on the Dalmatian coast. I met Ms. Simpson before, I believe, at a royal dinner in May. I didn’t think anything of it at the time, but I’m beginning to reconsider this whole situation.”

Eden: ”We don’t anything yet, sir. It could be all for nothing over a close friendship.”

Chamberlain: ”I don’t know. I remember back in ’34, in November, when Edward introduced her to his mother. Outraged, George V wouldn’t even meet with her.”

Baldwin: ”Yes, I suspect Edward’s fancies go beyond mere friendship. It’s the seriousness of it I wonder about. Yet he is the King and I am very reluctant to press the issue. With all the distractions in Spain and Abyssinia, let us hope this doesn’t explode in our faces, gentlemen. Very well, let’s keep our options open on this...for now.”

Long known to be associates, rumors and speculations about King Edward VIII’s relationship with Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, intensified after they were seen together on an Adriatic cruiser in August 1936​

 

[Mettermrck]

October 28, 1936

Halifax: "I've never seen Stanley in such a state. I'm starting to agree with him. This is serious."

Chamberlain: "Of course it's serious. An American divorcee? Queen of England? Unthinkable. No, Stanley is right to focus on this, and make His Majesty see reason."

Halifax: "Well, he's been up at Buckingham for almost a week now, trying to convince the King. I've heard His Majesty just won't listen, despite all the counsel of his ministers, including Stanley."

Chamberlain: "This is wearing him down, the Prime Minister. Yet it is shaping up to be a dangerous constitutional crisis. Stanley's cancelled all the meetings this week, no briefings, no Cabinet consultations, nothing. His full attention is on the King and this......Ms. Simpson."

Halifax: "So what do I do with these files then? The briefings on Spain and Ethiopia?"

Chamberlain: "Put them aside for now, Halifax. Once this mess gets sorted out, things will calm down and we can return to them. From what I see, there's little to worry us right now. The Italians still haven't taken Addis Ababa and the Spanish war is rapidly swinging towards the old government. Regrettable, but good for Europe's stability. No, leave them here with me, and I'll pass them to Stanley when I think he's of a mind to hear them."

After Miaja's victories in the southwest, attention turned to Madrid, where the next great Nationalist attack was underway. However, the move made their forces vulnerable to a pincer move in Salamanca and Saragossa. The victor here would likely be the victor of the war​

The Italians continued to delay their final offensive in late 1936, though by October, there indications that Bastico had finally gotten things underway​

Halifax: "Look at this, Neville. The Times is all over this one. 'Ipswich Assizes grants Decree Nisi'."

Chamberlain: "It won't be kept quiet now. Poor Stanley."

Wallis Simpson was granted a divorce 'decree nisi' at Ipswich Assizes on October 27, 1936​

decree nisi - This tells one that a divorce is almost completed. When the court gives one a Decree Nisi, one has to wait 6 weeks and 1 day before one can make the divorce final. This is to allow time for anyone who objects to the divorce to tell the court why they object.

 

[Mettermrck]

Interlude: The Growing Crisis
18 November 1936

The Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin, sat in his chair in the lounge, sighing as he waited for some of the day’s aches to vanish. The crackling fire did little to clear his mind and neither, as he had hoped, did the touch of brandy he had made for himself. It’s been a trying month, he thought, for me and for this government. Indeed, for the Empire.

Where it is written that empires and kings are governed by love? Surely the men of our royal line are brought up to value tradition above all else. George hadn’t been like this. Maybe it’s a flaw in Edward we never suspected. His Majesty is besotted and won’t listen to reason. He simply must see the dangers he’s bringing about. All my efforts to keep this relationship quiet will be for naught if he continues to insist.

The day’s conversation with the King had not gone well. For two weeks, King Edward VIII had reiterated his intentions to marry Ms. Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, who indeed, had gotten her divorce only a couple weeks ago. Her relationship with the King had always been a source of speculation, particularly when the two took a cruise to the Mediterranean, and pictures of them were taken off the coast of Dalmatia. The Royal Family shunned her, yet Edward stood his ground. For whatever his reasons, he was in love with Ms. Simpson and all thought of his royal dignity was set aside as he argued his case to the Prime Minister.

King Edward VIII dug in his heels in his attempts to marry Ms Wallis Simpson​

It was simply not to be, Baldwin argued. The British public would not accept Ms. Simpson as their Queen. This point alone had been bandied back and forth for days, as Baldwin struggled to make the King see that his will alone would not be enough to resolve the matter. Parliament, backed by a suspicious public, were already whispering. Despite Baldwin’s success at keeping direct news out of the newspapers, rumors were fast becoming harder to contain.

Will this King not see reason, Baldwin sighed again. He took another sip of brandy and shifted his position in his chair. These precious few minutes were probably all he would have, as he simply had to consult with Halifax and Chamberlain soon. He was already severely neglecting his duties on other issues, in order to devote his complete attention to this crisis.

Yet the question of the marriage and its effects on the system of government was a direct threat to the Empire, Baldwin knew it clearly. He had to make the King see! Yet it was to no avail. The King continued to insist. Indeed, only this morning he asked for a morganatic marriage, where Edward would be King, but Ms. Simpson would not be Queen, only his Consort.

Baldwin had balked at this immediately. Such a step would fool no one, and indeed no morganatic marriage of the Crown could ever be contemplated without special legislation, and not just here, he had told the King. The Dominions would want to have their say. And they would not favor such a course as much as the British public at home would not.

And the King continued to stand his ground. Baldwin sighed a third time and watched the fire crackle. So is the fire under this Monarchy starting to heat up. But it is left to me to bring the King to reason and protect this government. This is more important than anything that may be going on in Europe. I have to be there to sway His Majesty’s mind.

 

[Mettermrck]

2 December 1936

". . . recognizing that the aim of the Communist International, known as the Comintern, is to disintegrate and subdue existing States by all the means at its command; convinced that the toleration of interference by the Communist International in the internal affairs of the nations not only endangers their internal peace and social well?being, but is also a menace to the peace of the world”

Eden: ”Well, this is the summation of the text of the recent Anti-Comintern treaty signed by Germany and Japan. Essentially it brings the two countries into alignment against what they perceive as a Communist threat – no doubt some reference to their common neighbor, the Soviet Union.”

Chamberlain: ”Anti-communism is certainly not the worst cause two nations can cooperate on. In fact, there are many in this government who wonder why we hold ourselves aloof from such sentiments.”

Eden: ”Granted, Mr. Chamberlain, yet Germany has become increasingly proactive this year, there is no doubt. Last week’s announcement on the internationalization of her rivers, for example. ’ The German Government have earnestly endeavored to replace this intolerable arrangement by other agreements . . .. The agreement on rivers, the Rhine, Weser, Elbe, and Oder, was a cornerstone of the Versailles treaty. Yet another portion Germany is testing the boundaries of.”

Halifax: ”We’ve expressed our regrets on this matter, Anthony. Surely you’re not just something...hasty?”

Eden: ”Of course not. I’m simply bringing it to the Cabinet’s attention.”

Chamberlain: ”Your vigilance is ever appreciated, Anthony, you may rest assured on that. Britain is at a crisis in her very being right now, and the Prime Minister has had to utilize all his energy in bringing it to a swift and amicable conclusion. We cannot afford to disrupt things with...unpleasant foreign news.

Eden: ”I see.”

Cooper: ”I for one would like to hear more about Spain. Now that Ethiopia’s gone, Italy is turning a freer hand to helping out the Nationalists. I’m wondering how that situation will develop in the coming months.”

Halifax: ”We should be asking you, Duff, as our resident military expert. Or perhaps the Minister of Defence, Mr. Inskip?”

Inskip: ”Well, Duff here knows as much as I on recent events in Spain, as you can see from your briefing papers.”

Inskip: ”Now, as we all know, Italy’s armies entered Addis Ababa earlier this month after a massive surprise assault on their Emperor Selassie’s defensive line. Six Italian divisions took the capital. Now we all know that the Prime Minister has permitted Selassie residence in London for the time being, but for all intents and purposes, Ethiopia is securely Italian. What does this mean? Simply that Mr. Mussolini will grow more confident. He’s already sending more men and material to Spain. Whether this will have a military bearing? That remains to be seen.”

Italian troops outside Addis Ababa – November 1936​

Cooper: ”I’m not sure, but I’m inclined against the Nationalists. Their attack on Madrid was a debacle, and Franco is clearly in disgrace, relegated to some provincial garrison on the northern coast. They lost six divisions, and with the south lost, it’s a matter of time. And personally I am glad of it. The lure of a protracted war in Spain was becoming too much for some of our European neighbors.”

Eden: ”Indeed, we are in agreement on that point. Might I touch briefly on the situation with Peru and Ecuador?”

Chamberlain: ”Oh very well, Anthony. You have five minutes.”

Eden: ”I just wanted to confirm for the Cabinet that the Peruvian delegates have indeed walked away from the table. They’re still adamant about revising the Pedemonte-Mosquera Protocol.”

Cooper: ”The Marañon-Amazon River business? I thought they settled that in 1830?”

Eden: ”Settled to Ecuador’s satisfaction, most certainly. Tell that to the government in Lima, however. This could escalate.”

Chamberlain: ”And if it does, I am sure the newly elected President of the United States, Mr. Roosevelt, will be most concerned. As for us, our sympathies alone can we provide. Ah, Stanley, there you are!”

- Prime Minister Baldwin enters the room and sits down –

Baldwin: ”Gentlemen, thank you. Sit down, sit down. No time for ceremony, I’m afraid. I will unable to join you for long, as I’m wanted back at the Palace for consultations with His Majesty.”

Chamberlain: ”Is it?”

Baldwin: ”It’s looking that way, Neville. Now please, let me fill you in. On the 16th, His Majesty, having continued to insist that he wanted to marry Ms. Simpson, told me, and I believe him, that he was willing to abdicate in order to do so.”

- gasps and muttering –

Baldwin: ”Naturally I was against any such idea, and made it clear to His Majesty that such an act is inconceivable. On the 25th, he proposed the idea of morganatic marriage, where he would remain King yet Ms. Simpson would only be Consort, not Queen. Well, all of us here rejected that idea and now the Dominions too have weighed against it. So here we stand, gentlemen. I am going to the Palace tonight and will tell the king firmly that he now has three clear choices: finish his relationship with Ms. Simpson, press ahead with this marriage idea, or abdicate. I have made it clear that the second choice would immediately be followed by my resignation.”

Chamberlain: ”And mine.”

Halifax: ”Aye. I think you’ll find all the ministers support you on this, Stanley.”

Baldwin: ”Thank you, gentlemen. That means more to me than you know. If there’s nothing else? I must continue to try to bring our King to reason on this. Good day to you all.”

 

[Mettermrck]

10 December 1936​

WE INTERRUPT THIS AAR TO BRING YOU THE FOLLOWING BULLETIN​

Listen to the actual BBC broadcast​

This is London.

A quarter of an hour ago, the Prime Minister came to the bar of the House and handed to the Speaker a message from His Majesty the King. Here is the text of the message, which was read by the Speaker:



After long and anxious consideration, I have determined to renounce the throne to which I had succeeded on the death of my father. And I am now communicating this, my final and irrevocable decision.

‘Realising as I do the gravity of this step, I can only hope that I shall have the understanding of my peoples in the decision I have taken and the reasons which have led me to take it. I will not enter now into my private feelings, but I would beg that it should be remembered that the burden which constantly rests on the shoulders of a Sovereign is so heavy that it can only be borne in circumstances different from those in which I now find myself. I conceive that I am not overlooking the duty that rests on me to place in the forefront the public interest when I declare that I am conscious that I can no longer discharge this heavy task with efficiency or with satisfaction to myself.

‘I have accordingly this morning executed an instrument of abdication in the terms following:-

‘I Edward the Eighth of Great Britain, Ireland and the British Dominions beyond the Seas, King Emperor of India, do hereby declare my irrevocable determination to renounce the Throne, for myself and for my descendents, and my desire that effect should be given to this instrument of Abdication immediately. In token whereof I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of December 1936, in the prescence of the witnesses whose signatures are subscribed - (Signed) Edward R.I.’

‘My execution of this instrument has been witnessed by my three brothers, their Royal Highnesses the Duke of York, the Duke of Gloucester and the Duke of Kent. I deeply appreciate the spirit which has actuated the appeals which have been made to me to take a different decision and I have, before reaching my final determination, most fully pondered over them. But my mind is made up. Moreover, further delay cannot but be most injurious to the peoples whom I have tried to serve as Prince of Wales and as King, and whose future happiness and prosperity are the constant wish of my heart. I take my leave of them in the confident hope that the course which I have thought it right to follow is that which is best for the stability of the Throne, Empire and happiness of my peoples.

‘I am deeply sensible of the consideration which they have always extended to me, both before and after my accession to the Throne, and which I know they will extend in full measure to my successor. I am most anxious that there should be no delay of any kind in giving effect to the instrument which I have executed and that all necessary steps should be taken immediately to secure that my lawful successor, my brother, His Royal Highness the Duke of York, should ascend the Throne - Edward R.I.’

THANK YOU. WE NOW RETURN YOU TO YOUR AAR.​

 

[Mettermrck]

12 December 1936

His Majesty George VI, By the Grace of God, of Great Britain, Ireland, and of the British Dominions beyond the Seas, King, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India​

Listen to the Proclamation of George VI's Accession​

'Whereas by an Instrument of Abdication dated the Tenth day of December instant His former Majesty King Edward the Eighth did declare His irrevocable Determination to renounce the Throne for Himself and His Descendants, and the said Instrument of Abdication has now taken effect, whereby the Imperial Crown of Great Britain, Ireland, and all other His former Majesty's dominions is now solely and rightfully come to the High and Mighty Albert Frederick Arthur George : We, therefore, the Lords Spiritual and Temporal of this Realm, being here assisted with these of His former Majesty's Privy Council, with numbers of other Principal Gentlemen of Quality, with the Lord-Mayor, Aldermen, and citizens of London, do now hereby, with one Voice and Consent of Tongue and Heart, publish and proclaim, That the High and Mighty Prince Albert Frederick Arthur George, is now become our only lawful and rightful Liege Lord George the Sixth by the Grace of God, of Great Britain, Ireland, and the British Dominions beyond the Seas King, Defender of the Faith, Emperor of India: To whom we do acknowledge all Faith and constant Obedience, with all hearty and humble Affection: beseeching God, by whom Kings and Queens do reign, to bless the Royal Prince George the Sixth, with long and happy years to reign over Us.

Given at St. James's Palace, this Twelfth day of December in the year of our Lord One thousand nine hundred and thirty-six. '

God Save The King!​

 

[Mettermrck]

"An Act to make provision, in accordance with the Constitution,
for the exercise of the executive authority of Saorstat Eireann in relation to certain matters in the domain of external relations and for other matters connected with the matters aforesaid.
Be it enacted by the Oireachtas of Saorstat Eireann as follows:"

Baldwin: "Well, that's it, I suppose. George will be the last King of Ireland."

Chamberlain: "Probably for the best, with that troublesome land. The King keeps some powers, correct?"

Baldwin: "Very little. He accredits ambassadors to Eire and represents them in foreign affairs, but that is about it. And he acts on the advice of their Dáil Éireann."

Chamberlain: "Well, Mr. Gladstone would have been delighted, had he been here to see it. Do you have to meet with His Majesty again?"

Baldwin: "Oh, yes. He wants a briefing on the Ethiopian situation."

Chamberlain: "Mussolini again? Another bribery?"

Baldwin: "Oh, no. Selassie's not fool enough to return to Italian clutches. The only one who would benefit from that is Italy. No, no, this is the latest diplomatic fuss. The Garden Party."

Chamberlain: "Rather rash thing to do."

Baldwin: "Well, he issued his invitations as Emperor of Ethiopia yet he arrives in London incognito. Naturally His Majesty is at a loss on how to receive him. And we weren't the only ones mind you. Let's see...the United States, Japan, Germany, France, most of Europe, and all of the Dominions...all expressed their regrets. No, Neville, Mr. Selassie is going to have to content himself with without his Imperial crown for the time being."

Chamberlain: "Garden parties and Ireland. News must be slow if this is all we can discuss, Stanley. Tell me the truth. What's on your mind?"

Baldwin: "I'm getting old, Neville. This monarchy business is only the latest in a series of problems that have been weighing me down lately. The Italians in Ethiopia, the Spanish Revolt, Winston's wrangling over the Germans, and now this. I'm tired, Neville. Simply tired."

Chamberlain: "Surely you can't mean...."

Baldwin: "Well, not quite yet. Once the coronation is completed and I can make some arrangements to depart with my dignity. But...yes. I believe it's the right time."

Chamberlain: "And there's nothing I can say to?"

Baldwin: ]"Afraid not, Neville, though it'll be up to you to run things around here. I only hope you contend with less stressful politics than I have borne the burden of. Now, do you have the Naval Estimates? I want to see the cost figures for the new King George V-class battleships."

Chamberlain: "Yes, I have Hoare's numbers here. They're laying down the King George V and Prince of Wales starting..."

Despite major budget cuts, Great Britain laid down 2 of the new King George V-class battleships in January 1937​