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

[Mettermrck]

Eden: ”And Chancellor Hitler demanded return of German colonies, announced the end of reparations provisions for the management of the Reichsbank and German railways as nongovernmental concerns, and repudiated the war-guilt clause of the Versailles treaty; and he said that Germany was ready to guarantee the inviolability and neutrality of Belgium and The Netherlands.”

Cooper: ”Awfully nice of the fellow to say so. How far do we trust him then?”

Baldwin: ”It’s a situation where we have to inspire some sort of trust in the man. The alternatives are impossible even to consider. Herr Hitler is flexing the German muscle, and I fear that many countries will rush to accept him at his word.”

Chamberlain: ”And why not? Certainly there’s a case to made for German considerations of the Versailles treaty. We’ve struggled for seventeen years to come to grips to that. While I deplore the unilateral nature of his actions, I’m not automatically opposed. He did use the phrase ’peace is our dearest treasure’. A man after my own heart.”

US warentry –4
French warentry –2
Belgian warentry –5
Luxembourg warentry –3
Dutch warentry –5
Republican Spain warentry –1​

Cooper: ”If he means it.”

Baldwin: ”Hmm yes, well, that delicate question I leave to the good graces of time. Anything else on the subject, Mr. Eden?”

Eden: ”Just that I don’t find it to be a surprising trend. The Germans did nationalize the Kiel Canal again on the 16th, and thus far this government hasn’t raised objections. I think the Chancellor is testing the extent of his newfound passion for international drama.”

Baldwin: ”Quite. Now then. I believe we have a report on the Spanish Rebellion?”

Inskip: ”Ah, yes, Stanley. Duff here had a few words on the fighting in Pamplona.”

Cooper: ”I just wanted to update you on the latest. Barring a miracle, I’d say these Nationalist fellows have had it. Generalissimo Yague and his cronies have thus far demonstrated a poor record on the field of battle. They’ve completed their retreat from the outskirts of Madrid, but Miaja closed that awful trap around Pamplona, and they lost two more divisions. See here...”

Inskip: ”Just about over, I trust. Well, perhaps Spain will become more...sensible...once all this fuss has gone down.”

Cooper: ”We’ll see. Remember in Ethiopia we anticipated a quick Italian victory, and it still took months.”

Baldwin: ”You predicted a quick victory, Duff!”

Cooper: ”Of course, Prime Minister. I only want to emphasize that Generalissimo Yague has eight divisions massed in their ‘capital’ at Burgos, and they’re partially protected by the Duero to the south, and somewhat by the Ebro to the east. It will be difficult for Miaja’s forces to approach. And the Republicans aren’t massed yet for a final thrust. It will take some time.”

Baldwin: ”I may not like these Republicans but I will certainly glad when this whole affair is over. The whole business has made the business of keeping the peace in Europe much too unpleasant. Anything else. Neville?”

Chamberlain: ”Nothing much to add, sir. Mr. Julien wanted me to remind you that he’s just about completed his summary of last month’s Parliamentary sessions as well as a sidebar on domestic opinion. I thought it would add to your briefing. I’m hoping to have it on your desk in the morning.”

Baldwin: ”Good, good. Anthony?”

Eden: ”Nothing at the moment, sir. You wanted me to come by later and discuss the American troubles with their courts?”

Baldwin: ”I just thought perhaps there might be a few good ideas in what Mr. Roosevelt was trying to do with his judiciary, that’s all. Nothing for the moment. Just for reference sake.”

US dissent +1
US moves towards democracy +10​

(note: couldn't resist, as this is one of mine)​

 

[Mettermrck]

“All figures relating to numbers of troops - whether Spanish or foreign - in Spain are conjectural, but as far as can 'be judged at the moment there would seem to be between 30,000 and 60,000 volunteers on the rebel side and between 80,000 and 100,000 on the Government side, the latter, of course, bring supplies with an incomparably superior armament.”

- Manchester Guardian, 20th February 1937


Cooper: ”It won’t do them much good, I’m afraid. And I for one am glad. The thought of German and Italian troops gaining experience in Spain is not a concept I’m comfortable with.”

Inskip: ”Hmm, well, the foreign volunteers have done nothing to retrieve Yague’s cause. From your latest reports, I’m gathering that the Republicans are on the verge of triumph?”

Cooper: ”Well, no guarantees, of course. Miaja is making his first move, sending Pantojas and three divisions into the Gijon sector. They’re backed by significant air power and outnumber the rebels three to one. I don’t think this rebel commander Franco will hold on long.”

Inskip: ”And if that happens?”

Cooper: ”It becomes a fortress battle. Pantojas can sweep into Cantabria and cut out the heart of the remaining rebel territory. It would come down to a siege of Burgos. Yague has a lot of divisions left and good equipment, but he’s losing his freedom of maneuver. It’s a question of time. And from the latest reports, Stalin is stepping up his supplies of aid, including tanks and guns.”

Republican troops begin what they hope will be the final push of the war - in to Gijon province​

Inskip: ”I am not a politician, Duff, and neither are you. More’s the pity for both of us. The Prime Minister will have to deal with consequences of a Spain that’s Republican, and which owes significant gratitude to the Soviet Union. To the Communists. I don’t know what worries me the most, Duff. The fascists or the Communists.”

Cooper: ”As you say, neither of us are politicians. We leave those great questions to those who are. You read the latest reports from Hore-Belisha? More German shipments to Italy. Coal and the like. I tell you, Minister, those two countries are tightening their links every day. First airplane engines, and now this.”

German diplomatic influence +2
Germany ships 10,000 coal to Italy​

”It’s a trend. Remember that report on Persia this morning? About secret Italian contacts arriving in Teheran and Mussolini trying to increase his influence there? And now the death of their minister, Ali Akbar Davar. Coincidence?”

Inskip: ”I’m inclined to think so. We mustn’t look for trouble where there might be none. Simply because one of their ministers dies of a heart attack-------“

Persian dissent +5
New Persian Armaments Minister – Mahmud Bader
(Undistinguished Suit)​

Cooper: ”They say suicide, Minister.”

Inskip: ”Well, whatever it was. It doesn’t necessarily point to some diabolical Italian plot. Now enough of this. The Prime Minister wanted those figures for the 1937 Estimates. It’s crunch time financially and we need to present a good case.”

Cooper: ”A good case?!? Minister, the Army and Air Force have been ignored for the past year. Except for some minor boosts of technology, nothing has been improved. No expansion, no upgrades, not even a single division or squadron added. No, Minister, it’s the Navy and nothing else. You may present the Prime Minister with a blank sheet of paper. That, sir, will signify the production and activity of the Army and Air Force this year.”

Inskip: ”I’m not sure that’s appropriate, Duff. Certainly the Navy has had the most benefits from what funding we’ve received. You must understand that the Royal Navy is our bulwark. If anything needs strengthening, it’s our position on the seas. We have to make our friends respect us, and potential foes fear us.”

Cooper: ”And that’s the reasons behind this massive spending?”

Inskip: ”I wouldn’t call it massive. Five King George V-class battleships and four Illustrious-class carriers? The Admirals want to play it safe. And we need to. We got the Ark Royal nearing completion, and we’ve built over sixty destroyers this year. We’re slowly making progress.”

Cooper: ”Let’s just hope we won’t have a need for the British Army or the Royal Air Force in the coming decade, then, Minister.”

 

[Mettermrck]

On the Public Order Act of 1936​

As per the Prime Minister’s request, I have enclosed a brief summary on the early reports on the effectiveness of this bill and its retardation of the activities of the British Union of Fascists (BUF) and other groups associated with a more radical bent towards social reform.

The Cable Street riots of 4 October 1936 led to calls for tighter government restriction on protest marches and led to the passage of the Public Order Act of 1936​

The disturbances on Cable Street on 4 October 1936 represented a clear threat to the public order and necessitated the establishment of revised regulations to prevent any reoccurrence. Mr. Mosley’s organization attempted a march through the predominantly Jewish neighborhoods of the East End. Protests and barricades forced the BUF to march through the Cable Street neighborhood, where violent disorders broke out between the marchers and protestors representing the residents, dockworkers, as well as assorted Communist and leftist elements. Police protection was ineffective. The Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Sir Phillip Game, was quite right in ordering Mosley to return to London. Not to condemn just the BUF, it is noted that the Communist protestors were rather well-organized and were may be been ‘prepared’ for the so-called “blackshirt march”.

This sort of violent outbreak was certainly a clear example of that which the Public Order Act seeks to curtail. Having just gone into effect on 1 January 1937, it is perhaps too early to come to any direct conclusions on the effect of the Act. Yet the powers granted under its provisions will be of great service in our attempts to prevent the sort of chaos that is common in Italy, Germany, and Spain from occurring here at home. The Act prevents the wearing of political uniforms as well as the use of threatening or abusive language in public assemblies. Such assemblies are also banned in the London area except when permitted by this office. Chief constables from other areas will also be allowed to apply for bans. I think perhaps we can nip this rightist tendency towards violent protest before it gets out of hand.

- 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

 

[Mettermrck]

30 March 1937

Eden: ”Oh yes, it’s quite a setback for Mr. Roosevelt, and surprising, too. It was our belief that his massive electoral victory late last year gave him the momentum to push through the rest of his domestic programs.”

US industry +10​

US war entry -5​

Chamberlain: ”Well, political parties are as unpredictable across the pond as they are here, I suppose. Still, I wouldn’t worry. The President has a fond habit of...how do you say it...’bouncing back’ from political adversity? The defeat of his Second New Deal won’t finish him off quite yet. And there’s still three years to the next election over there. But enough talk about the Americans. It’s refreshing to see London’s streets so calm of late.”

Halifax: ”Mr. Mosley clearly needed a break from his rousing. Sir John has done wonders with the new legislation and I think we can safely say the appropriate steps have been taken to reestablish the public order.”

Baldwin: ”Good, good. Now, gentlemen, as many of you may know, through my having said so, or through the system of rumor so prevalent in our executive, that these will be my final months as head of this government. Now before you all protest, and I do appreciate it, let me just say that I have done my time for my country and it is time for me to move on. This past year has taught me the wisdom of appreciating one’s years.”

Chamberlain: ”Stanley, I think I can speak for all of you when I say you will be missed. You’ll at least stay on to the Coronation? After all, the stability of the monarchy owes itself to you. The whole country knows that.”

The Old and the New – Stanley Baldwin and Neville Chamberlain​

Baldwin: ”Flattery will get you everywhere, Neville. Of course, gentlemen, Mr. Chamberlain here will be taking over the reins of government when I depart, and I know he’ll do a good job. He has my utmost confidence, and I hope all of you remain loyal to him in any capacity he asks you to serve. Enough sentiment for me. The First Lord wanted a quick word before we moved on to Spain. Sir?”

Hoare: ”You wanted the latest figures on construction, Prime Minister. With the Duke of York, Anson, and Howe being laid down last month, this totals five new battleships under construction. And thanks to the Exchequer’s generosity, we’ll be laying down four new carriers this year as well – the Illustrious next month, Victorious in May, and the Formidable and Indomitable later in the year. All in all, what with the destroyer construction and the new cruisers, we’re in good shape.”

Cooper: ”Prime Minister, forgive me for interrupting. But this would be a good time to bring up my Egypt proposals?”

Baldwin: ”Ah yes, Duff. I did promise you five minutes, didn’t I. No guarantees beyond that, however.”

Cooper: ”Thank you. Gentlemen, it is my earnest belief that this Cabinet needs to begin the necessary steps to reevaluate our defenses in key sectors. Now I know funding is tight and there is little to spare, but we would be remiss if we did not at least accomplish a minimum of improvement in several specific regions. Most notably is Egypt. The Italians were not interfered with when they conducted operations in Ethiopia and now they've established a firm power base in the Horn of Africa. Combined with their bases in Cyrenaica, this poses a direct threat to our positions in the Canal. While I advocate the stationing of a corps of troops to protect such a vital region, at minimum I beg of you to at least send a division to Suez along with some more fighters. We need to send a message to the Italians that we are quite aware of our African obligations.”

The Gloster Gladiator, the mainstay of British fighter defense in the late 1930s​

Chamberlain: ”This is your call, Stanley. You know how I feel on added expenditure, yet it seems you and Duff have discussed this prior?”

Baldwin: ”Only to the extent that Duff here could have his say. I will say that I am not outright opposed. I am a bit tired of being lambasted in the Daily Mail and the Times and it would be nice to be seen doing something for a change. It might just be worth the cost.”

Halifax: ”I worry about the costs involved. We can’t transfer a division from the Home Islands or anywhere else, for that matter. We’d have to raise a new one. And fighters? We barely have any to spare.”

Cooper: ”We have none to spare, which is part of the problem. And the Hurricane program is lagging far behind, to say nothing of other designs. Again, I propose, at minimum, a new fighter squadron, two if possible. It’s a small piece we can do to shore up international confidence in our position. Coupled with our impressive naval strength, thanks to the First Lord here, we’ll be in good shape to maintain our influence.”

Baldwin: ”Very well. Objections, gentlemen? Neville, I’ll ask you to see to it. It might require a light touch in the budget this year. And make sure the Times finds out about this. Alright, Duff, you got your way. Now tell me about Spain.”

Cooper: ”The whole world watches for the final battles, it seems. General Miaja is taking his time about it, I must say, but he faces a formidable position along the Duero. The rebel capital is well protected. Early indications from this morning the Gijon engagements still raging. I think it’s a touch ironic.”

Baldwin: ”Oh? How so?”

Cooper: ”The rebel general. Franco. He was disgraced after Valencia and the botched attack on Madrid. Sent by General Yague to the backwater in northern Spain, where there was no action. And now he finds himself, outnumbered three to one, holding off what could be the last offensive of the war.”

Baldwin: ”Mr. Eden? What are your contingencies for a Republican victory? I wouldn’t want Madrid to be too grateful to the Russians for their material aid?”

Eden: ”We can certainly do our best to persuade them otherwise. They’ll need funding to rebuild their torn countryside that’s for sure. I think we can send a high-level envoy to talk to President Azaña and his man Caballero. Their government’s a little too leftist for our tastes, but that could be due to measures necessitated by war. Perhaps when hostilities conclude, we can exert some favorable pressure.”

President Manuel Azaña and Chief of Staff General Vicente Rojo, two of the men the British hoped to cultivate in a post-rebellion Spain​

 

[Mettermrck]

3 April 1937

Baldwin: ”I trust the arrangements are proceeding well?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”Yes they are. The final handover ceremonies to Parliament were completed just this past week and we should be expecting a confirmation by telegram today. Sir Archibald, the new Governor, is putting together a top-notch administration in Rangoon and I think the new colony will be stable enough.”

Baldwin: ”Good. We’ve had enough troubles from that corner of the world without more in Burma. What’s the situation in Aden?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”The same, though with much less fanfare. It’s a Crown Colony now like Burma, and the new governor arrived two weeks ago, though by the terms of the Government of India Act, his administration did not officially begin until the first of this month.”

Baldwin: ”So that brings us to India. What’s the latest?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”The Viceroy has given his verbal commitment not to use his powers in legislative affairs, as we concluded last week. Mr. Nehru and his All-India group were...satisfied. I don’t think they’ll remain quiet for long, however. “

Baldwin: ”Yes, well, we thought it best to concede at this point, especially with the recent elections and the new government taking power. Winston has been raking me over the coals for it, but we’ve managed to stifle him.”

Ormsby-Gore: ”Well, it’s quieted the situation for now. Let’s see...the last of the elections were completed in February and my early reports were correct. The Indian National Congress holds 750 of the 1,772 seats.”

Baldwin: ”Ah. So much for Mr. Gandhi’s claim to represent 95% of the Indians.”

Ormsby-Gore” ”And the Muslim League holds 106 out of 491 Muslim seats, so no decisive advantage there either. The rest is a myriad of parties all across the spectrum of Indian politics. It will be an interesting government that takes power in July, Stanley.”

Baldwin: ”And fortunately, I will not be around to be responsible for it. Thank you, William, that’ll be all.”


7 April 1937

Swinton: ”I like the look of her, Reginald.”

Sir Edward Ellington, Marshal of the RAF: ”Thank you, Mr. Secretary. I was a bit reluctant at first, though I must say it’s grown on me.”

Swinton: ”The Hurricane? Doesn’t strike me as the stormy type, but it looks like it can carry the fight, that’s for sure. How are the tests proceeding?”

Ellington: ”As well as can be expected. The first production models are only just coming off the assembly lines, so it’s too early to tell. We’re confident in this line of fighters, however.”

Swinton: ”Good, good. Any problem embarking the squadron for Egypt?”

Ellington: ”Not at all. We’ll be moving one of the Home Squadrons to the Egyptian Air Command starting next week, so we can maintain a veteran presence in the Suez. The new squadrons, which will be the first to use the Hurricane fighter, will be constituted in the coming months.”

Swinton: ”We managed to squeeze a little gold from the coffers, Edward. I can breathe a touch easier for our air defence. But only a touch. My, she’s a fast plane!”

The Hawker Hurricane, the first monoplane to see service with the RAF​

Ellington: ”Yes, Mr. Secretary. 318mph top speed. It can climb to 36,000 feet! And the new Spitfire prototype is even more impressive. Give me the planes, Mr. Secretary. And we can both breathe easier.”

Swinton: ”Funding, Marshal, funding. Such rules all things, even things military.”


15 April 1937

Chamberlain: ”Stanley wanted me to be briefed on some of the pressing issues in your department. I won’t officially be moving in until late next month, but I thought it best to get up to speed on things. He wants me to handle the Conference Report? How is that proceeding?”

Eden: ”Two, in fact, sir. The Montreux Conference started on the 12th, to discuss the Egyptian questions. Two points in fact. The Capitulations and the Mixed Tribunals.”

Chamberlain: ”I’m not as familiar as I thought on the subject, Anthony. You’ll have to enlighten me.”

Eden: ”Simply put, foreign residents retained immunity from taxation by the Egyptian government under the old Capitulation system. And the Mixed Tribunals allowed the Powers jurisdiction over transactions involving foreigners. “

Chamberlain: ”Ah, yes, now, I remember. The phaseouts.”

Eden: ”Exactly. The Tribunals will be phased out over a length of time, probably from ten to fifteen years, while the Capitulations will be outright removed. It’s more a formality since last year’s Defence Treaty.”

Chamberlain: ”Puts a seal on our relations Egypt, however. Good, good. So we anticipate no problems?”

Eden: ”None, sir. Now yesterday the Imperial Conference began. In fact, I’ll be needing to head over in a few moments to check on things. Essentially it’s for the discussion of Dominion issues, things of that nature. There’s a proposal to separate the League Covenant from the peace treaties of the last war, for example. Canada has a complaint about the CIO strike at their automobile plants. South Africa is answering questions about their recent crackdown on naturalized Germans in Southwest Africa.”

Chamberlain: ”So it’s more of a status report on our Dominions then? What about all the economic aid we’re providing?”

Eden: ”Thus far, they appear satisfied with the quantities we’re currently shipping. Our Malaya surplus of rubber, for example, is overflowing our warehouses. It’s in our interests to put those goods to use.”

Chamberlain: ”Any other complaints?”

Eden: ”They will be speaking on the Duke of Windsor’s trip to Berlin.”

Chamberlain: ”Oh heaven, I thought Stanley talked to them on this. I never realized Edward leaned so much towards the Germans. But to have to go and do this, so quickly after his abdication? It’s uncomfortable, to say the least.”

Eden: ”Sir, he met with both Herr Hitler and Hess. It’s very unseemly and the Dominions are not pleased at all. And I cannot say I blame them.”

Chamberlain: ”Well, we won’t raise a fuss over this, Anthony. No, the best way to deal with the German situation is to work with them, get to understand their nature. When I move in next month, I’ll explain more of my ideas. Well, you need to be going. I need to make some calls about the Coronation preparations. Four weeks to go, and I’m already exhausted from it all.”

19 April 1937

Cooper: ” A forty-five-truck convoy carrying supplies and some passengers from Manzai to Wana, escorted by four armoured cars and guarded by nearly eighty Indian troops, was attacked by at least sixty to eighty Wazirs. The first car and several trucks made it out, but they immobilized the next two trucks, blocking the whole convoy in a narrow corridor. They had to hold out until relief arrived. It’s a mess, Minister. There are more troops in Waziristan right now than the rest of the subcontinent put together!”

Inskip: ”Well, Duff, the Northwest Frontier has never been quiet. You know that and I do too. We’ll just have to suppress the Pakthuns as best we can. Can’t afford not to, what with all that’s been going on in India. I’m afraid your requests for another division have been rejected. And you can forget about planes. Egypt has exhausted our currency of good will with the Cabinet this year. We’re stuck with what we have.”

Cooper: ”It’s low-intensity warfare and doesn’t effect our control too much. Though the situation could change. All I ask is that we be on guard.”

Inskip: ”Agreed. Now, do you have the Spanish report? The Prime Minister wants an update before he meets with the leadership.”

Cooper: ”It’s still a tangled mess, Minister, so don’t expect precision. The figures on the rebels are guesses at best these days. Officially, we believe there are nine rebel units in the field in Vigo province that can be called ‘divisions’. What was left of their organized army was destroyed at Burgos and I don’t expect it to recover.”

Inskip: ”I’m impressed with the Republicans. I had expected them to pay a high price for the rebel capital.”

Cooper: ”I think it was an underestimation of air power, Minister. The Germans, Italians, and the Soviets have been providing planes for both sides, but with Republican control of most of the country, a lot of the rebel planes were destroyed by retreating forces or overwhelmed in the skies. The Republicans simply overran their airfields. As to the ground campaign, Miaja relied heavily on maneuver and crossed the Duero from the east instead of the south as was expected. With Franco driven out of Gijon, it was all over for Burgos.”

Inskip: ”I think what surprises me is the rapid disintegration of the rebel army. I mean, those stories you told me were something else, Duff. Tanks being abandoned at the side of the road, men just sitting down in the mud, waiting to be captured.”

Cooper: ”Yes, sir. It’s confirmed as of yesterday that General Yague was killed west of Burgos. Some reports indicate his own men were responsible while others think it was a strafing attack by a Republican airplane. Regardless, Franco commands the remnants now. Miaja has nine divisions attacking into Vigo now, with heavy air support by several squadrons. A matter of time now.”

Jubilant Republican troops celebrate the fall of Burgos – April 1937​

Inskip: ”Well, personally, I’m glad. I’ve known plenty of officers with silent sympathies for the anti-Communists, but I don’t like seeing Germany and Italy meddling in other countries affairs.”

Cooper: ”And the Soviet Union?”

Inskip: ”A question for those with more responsibility.”

21 April 1937

Ellington: ”Whom?”

Captain Roger Ferguson, aide to the Marshal of the RAF: ”This was passed on by Research. Thought you might like to glance at it. It’s the Whittle Report.”

Ellington: ”Ah, yes! So did it work? Or did it collapse all around him. Several of the staff have a running wager, I’m afraid.”

Ferguson: ”The indications were positive. It was more of a laboratory rig than a real aircraft engine, but the observers seemed impressed.”

Ellington: ”Well, they would be. And that’s all we can be. Impressed. But if Frank Whittle is looking for more RAF funds to develop his engine idea, he can forget it. £10,000 is quite enough. Pass the word on that there’s no funding available for any of the most recent research proposals. This...eh...turbo...jet scheme will just have to wait in line with the rest of the mountain of pending projects.”

Ferguson: ”Of course, sir.”

Ellington: ”First air ships, and now this. Do you think he’s crazy, Captain?”

Ferguson: ”Uh, I’m not a scientist, sir, though I’m fascinated by the concept.”

Ellington: ”Blasting hot air backwards through a nozzle? I just don’t see it. Very well, Captain, you may file this.”


23 April 1937

Reports on Known Individuals of Radical Bent
Subject: William Joyce

William Joyce, founder of the British National Socialist League​

Deputy Leader of the British Union of Fascists (BUF) since 1933
Director of Propaganda for the BUF since 1934

Reports on the BUF indicate declining membership and a reduction in staff from 143 to 30. This includes the removal of Mr. Joyce from a salaried position within the organization. Differences with the Leader, Oswald Mosley, are well established, and Joyce appears to be more extremist even that those in the BUF.

It is reported with high confidence that Mr. Joyce has officially broken with the BUF and is putting together his own organization, the British Nationalist Socialist League (BNSL). Our information indicates that around sixty members of the BUF left with him. The BNSL appears to have a more radical position on Jewish relations than the longer-lived organizations of similar bent.

Our recommendation is for the allocation of additional personnel to keep tabs on the BNSL and watch for any signs of extremist activity.


29 April 1937

Eden: ”They came down hard on the museums. Herr Hitler’s government is assuming a very harsh position on those forms of art that are deemed ‘not appropriate towards the spirit of national socialism’. Thousands of pieces have been removed or destroyed in a matter of months, and Herr Goebbels, their propaganda man, has announced that they’ll be holding an exhibition of these items, as demonstrations of so-called ‘degenerate art’.”

Germany moves +20 towards fascism​

+ 1,500 supplies​

(combined over two events​

Baldwin: ”Well, I can understand why you might be concerned, Anthony, but what are we to do about it? We get reports of this nature all the time on Germany. Am I to authorize an official letter of complaint over art objects?”

Chamberlain: ”Certainly not, Stanley. This is clearly an internal affair, whatever one’s personal views on artistic expression. If we are ever going to placate the Germans, this is the start. By not speaking up every single time they do something we’re uncomfortable with. Save our strength for the bigger fights.”

Halifax: ”I for one can see some logic in Herr Hitler’s actions. There are several pieces in museums here in London that I’m a bit unnerved by. Perhaps it’s not right for a government like ours to take steps for decency, but I can’t completely blame the Germans for making the attempt.”

Baldwin: ”Well, there you have it, Anthony. File your report and we’ll keep it on hand for future reference. It’s all we can do. And you mentioned the Soviets? Have you learned any more on what’s going on?”

Eden: ”Information is scarcer than warm weather in Russia right now, Prime Minister. Stalin is clearly up to something. There are a lot of rumors coming out of Moscow and Leningrad. Too many to be simply hearsay.”

Baldwin: ”On these repressive measures?”

Eden: ”It’s hard to say what. If these reports are to believed, Stalin is moving against his own army command. I’ve personally heard six accounts of generals gone missing, though none are completely provable. I’m heard rumors stemming from having admirals shot, exiling prominent Committee members, and even replacing his security man, Yagoda.”

Yagoda is replaced with Yezhov as Security Minister​

Chamberlain: ”Self-imposed chaos? I don’t see how it would be possible, though I never put anything past the Russians. Communism breeds strange ideas in a man’s head.”

Eden: ”It’s a mess, which is all I can confirm. I’ll try to verify some of these reports.”

 

[Mettermrck]

12 May 1937​

Westminster Abbey, London​

Originally planned for the Edward VIII, the Coronation ceremony held in May 1937 was hastily adapted to the new monarch, George VI and his wife Elizabeth. New crowns had to be made, including, for Queen Elizabeth, one made of several thousand diamonds and topped with the famous Koh-i-Noor, the magnificent Indian diamond.

It was a tightly choreographed event, for this represented the first worldwide radio broadcast and was also the first time that television cameras were allowed in Westminster Abbey. The King and the Queen left Buckingham Palace in the Gold State Coach, having been preceded by the other members of the Royal Family, including Queen Mary and Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret (who travelled together in the Queen Alexandra State Coach) and also the Earl and Countess of Strathmore, who sat with the Royal Family in the gallery of the Abbey. Behind, the carriage the Dukes of Gloucester and Kent followed their brother, but the third royal duke, Windsor (former Edward VIII), was not there.

The Coronation itself took place in Westminster Abbey, which has a large platform at its center. The altar, choir stalls and seating are strategically placed around its perimeter. At the center of the theatre sits King Edward's Chair, known as the Coronation Chair. King Edward's Chair dates back to 1308 when it was used for the Coronation of Edward II. It is a wooden chair beneath whjich rests the Stone of Scone that was captured by Edward I from Scotland in 1296. This sandstone is legendary, as it was believed to be the one upon which Jacob's head lay while he dreamt his famous dream.

Edward wore the Supertunica, weighing 23 pounds when worn with the mantle, and with threads are made of gold. It was designed after a Roman Consul’s dress robes. He took the Royal Oath, ” Will you solemnly promise and swear to govern the people of the Kingdom of England and the dominions thereto belonging the law and Customs of the same?”, an oath altered since its last use by omitting the words “according to the Statutes in Parliament agreed on”, a point of some contention in subsequent years.

The ceremony was broadcast live on BBC Radio, except for the Anointing, which was still held privately, out of sight and ears. After the ceremony was completed, the royal couple rode through the streets of London, where they were cheered by some two million subjects on the balcony Some confidence has been restored in the monarchy, but the damage of the previous year’s Abdication had been done, and it would take time to overcome.

 

[Mettermrck]

7 May 1937 – 10 Downing Street

Baldwin: ”Not a month for tragedy, is it Sir John. First the Hindenberg and now this. I wanted to call you over briefly because I wanted the Home Office’s position on the package we’re putting together for Australia. Mainly foodstuffs, fuel, building materials, etc. Eden got a communiqué this morning from Sydney. The Rabaul volcano, somewhere down around New Guinea, exploded, almost completely destroying the main city on the island. Over 400 dead, it appears. Prime Minister Lyons anxious for assistance. What do you think?”

Simon: ”I’m in complete agreement, sir. Might foster good relations with Australia, to help out in a time of need. You might want to consult with Neville on the financial standpoint, but I think it’s good economically. I suspect it will also look good in the Times?”

Baldwin: ”I shall miss your keen political sense, Sir John.”


14 May 1937 - Army Proving Grounds, North of Portsmouth

Cooper: ”Well, General. I must say there’s some improvement thus far. Your men look fit and ready to fight.”

General Wavell: ”Thank you, sir. We’ve been working hard to get our signals system up to speed. As you can see, we’re utilizing a new technique of command and control. That army there, the Blue forces, was structured using the improved army command system devised last year. Essentially the equipping of better radios, the concentration of signals activity in central stations with central personnel at army headquarters to receive and interpret this information as quickly as possible. Thus far in engagements against the traditional Green army, they’ve shown increased efficiency, speed, and reaction time. They simply process the information faster and more efficiently.”

The British army, despite crippling budget shortfalls, managed to maintain a solid research program, particularly in the area of signals​

Cooper: ”What sort of information are we talking about? Intercepts? Reports?”

Wavell: ”Both, actually. In previous exercises, we had units communicating all over the radio frequencies. Garbled messages, confused orders. The review we’re doing now is going to go a long way in making our men more effective in the field. Simply put, it’ll be a great help letting an Army commander know precisely what is going on!”

Cooper: ”Good, good. I’m impressed, general. Do you have plans to incorporate these techniques in lower echelons of command?”

Wavell: ”We hope to, sir, but we’ve run into delays. Budgetary delays, I’m afraid. We had only funds for the one exercise, and my proposals for corps-level and even division-level experiments have been denied for the moment. They’re sinking our money into a medium bomber, sir. And meantime we simply make do.”

Cooper: ”We’re not the only ones, general. Certainly not the only ones. Command appreciates your efforts, as do I.”


17 May 1937 – London

Chamberlain: ”Ah, yes, Anthony. The Prime Minister wanted me to pass this note along. I’m afraid we’ve had to reduce your expense allowance by a quarter for your Madrid trip. I trust you’ll understand with all the cost overruns?”

Eden: ”I can’t say I’m surprised, Neville, but this is going to make things tight. The Spaniards love to be wined and dined and that will be difficult. Well, I’ll make do.”

Chamberlain: ”See that you do. We want to make a good impression on Azana and his top leaders before another country comes to call. With fortune, we can make Spain a bulwark of democracy in western Europe, without the necessity of confrontation. Remember, stick to the talking points. Avoid requests for military assistance, and do not, I repeat, do not get us entangled in any long-term security arrangements.”

With the conclusion of the Spanish Rebellion, Britain decided on a policy of ‘cultivation’ of the Madrid government​

Dissent –5​

War entry – 10​

Spanish capital moved to Madrid​

Eden: ”Might be useful, particularly to impress the Germans. And Azana is a wartime President. There is simply no way he’ll avoid the issues of guns.”

Chamberlain: ”Then see that you walk a fine line, Anthony. Calm and soothing. Appease his nerves and play to his weaknesses. You’ll be fine.”

Eden: ”That is easy for you to say. I’m the one on a tight budget. Worse than we thought?”

Chamberlain: ”The Navy Report is scandalous. When I move in a couple weeks, I intend to clean house with our admirals. 46 million allocated, and they’re spending 71! It’s these carriers. They persuaded us to authorize four, and now the costs are ballooning out of control. Something needs to be done, I tell you.”


26 May 1937 – 10 Downing Street

Baldwin: ”Well, gentlemen, one last meeting and I will be out of your hair forever.”

- chuckles around the room -

Chamberlain: ”Certainly nothing of that nature, Stanley. If anyone deserves a rest, it is you. This monarchy owes its stability to you.”

Baldwin: ”And yes, the public is just dancing in the streets, are they? I’m taken to task every day for the Spanish mess and now this brouhaha in Southampton. I trust, Sir John, all arrangements are being made?”

Simon: ”Of course, sir. The Red Cross has taken over the operation, and all of the children are being treated medically and have been put up in temporary shelters in the ports. Totals as of yesterday stand at 3,826 children thus far. Most of them Spanish, heavily Basque. Almost all orphans, minister.”

Despite a Republican victory, the social cost of the Spanish Rebellion was still high as 3,826 Spanish refugees, mostly Basque children, fled to England to escape the horrors of war​

Chamberlain: ”My god. You see, this is precisely the horror that I intend to prevent! I don’t want to see 4,000 British children orphaned over some war on the Continent.”

Baldwin: ”Admirable sentiments, Neville, of course. Fortunately that shall be your task from now on. The Daily Mail will never admit I’ve done all I can for the refugees. No, they’ll castigate me until the end of time for apparently being responsible for the whole Spanish rebellion. Simply unjust, I tell you, gentlemen. Does that cover all that you wanted to report, Anthony?”

Eden: ”Mostly, sir. I’ve put a few reports on your desk. The German mission in China and the Italian mission in Russia.”

Hoare: ”A preposterous concept if I ever heard one. Why on earth would fascist Mussolini want to help the Communists?”

Eden: ”Greed. Hedging his bets, perhaps. From our reports, it’s primarily battleship tech, but the Soviet apparatus for naval construction is so poor that even with advanced technology from Italy, their ability to mass produce is compromised. I think it’s a rather benign agreement.”

Chamberlain: ”Which is probably why Mussolini is concerned, nor should we be. He gets some oil and steel for his troubles and we can see if a Communist nation knows how to construct a battleship.”

 

[Mettermrck]

Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the waves!​

Britons never shall be slaves!​

His Majesty King George VI
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: June 1937​

Stanley Baldwin retires as Prime Minister
Neville Chamberlain moves from Chancellor of the Exchequer to Prime Minister
Ramsay MacDonald retires as Lord President of the Council
Viscount Halifax moves from Lord Privy Seal to Lord President of the Council
Sir John Simon moves from the Home Office to Chancellor of the Exchequer
Sir Samuel Hoare moves from First Lord of the Admiralty to the Home Office
Herbrand Sackville, Earl de la Warr, enters Cabinet as Lord Privy Seal
Leslie Hore-Belisha moves from the Ministry of Transport to the War Office
Alfred Duff Cooper moves from the War Office to First Lord of the Admiralty​

Rt. Hon. Neville Chamberlain, 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. Viscount Halifax, K.G., G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E., T.D. – 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. Sir John Simon, G.C.S.I., K.C.V.O., O.B.E., K.C., 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 Samuel Hoare, Bt, G.C.S.I., G.B.E., C.M.G., 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. Herbrand Sackville, 9th Earl de la Warr – 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 Leslie Hore-Belisha, 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. Oliver Frederick George Stanley, M.C., M.P. – President of the Board of Trade

Rt. Hon. Alfred Duff Cooper, D.S.O., 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


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 Madrid Talks – June 16, 1937​

British Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden and Spanish President Miguel Azana​

Azana: ”Well, Minister Eden. I trust you are enjoying yourself in Spain thus far? My government is heartened by your visit and hopes this can lead to more fruitful relations in the future.”

Eden: ”That is the wish of my government as well, President Azana. Our Prime Minister, Mr. Chamberlain, sends his regards and hopes for cordial and successful meeting between us.”

Azana: ”Good, good. Now, then. Sentiments aside...perhaps you might like to elaborate on some of the points you were mentioning earlier?”

Eden: ”Yes, of course. Simply put, the British Empire is happy to see a restoration of stability in Spain. The recent rebellion was unfortunate, of course, and it is heartening that the conflict was won by your government within a year’s time.”

Azana: ”Hmm, yes. Yet still regrettable. Even in a matter of months, war can devastate.”

Eden: ”Of course. Now that your government enjoys unchallenged governance in Spain, the British government would like to put a few questions to your person to discern what type of nation it is you hope to govern?”

Azana: ”You make your point delicately, Mr. Eden, yet I see the intent behind it. You want to know how much reliance I would place on those elements of the left?”

Eden: ”Quite so. As you are no doubt aware, foreign capital remains reluctant to reinvest in Spain. And as long as this is so, your government will continue to face the sort of economic difficulties that made this...rebellion happen. The British government wishes only to point out that a demonstration of..care...in your government’s future policy might have a positive effect in this regard.”

Azana: ”Delicately as ever, Mr. Eden. You know, when this war first started, I wanted no part of it. I attempted to resign, but the PSOE and PCE both asked me to stay on. There is a certain due owed to me by those parties for my having stayed in my position as President. These past few months have been difficult. My Prime Minister’s positions on social issues have not gone unnoticed by either party.”

Eden: ”Yes, now we come to it, or at least a major part of it. Your Prime Minister, Francisco Caballero, showed a measure of...moderation when it came government policies during the rebellion. We understand that he reinstated ranks and insignias into your militias, abolished the workers and soldiers councils, and recently instituted a new police force. The British government views his actions as part of the...care...we hope your government continues to follow?”

Azana: ”There are those in the PCE who view Caballero with displeasure. I myself have sometimes thought of how to calm them over this.”

Eden: ”By appointing Juan Negrin? Replacing Caballero?”

Azana: ”You have excellent sources, Mr. Eden. Certainly I cannot hide much from you, can I?”

Eden: ”Quite. Simply put. The retention of Senor Caballero as Prime Minister who reassure foreign governments, particularly ours, that Spain will steer a more moderate and careful course in the coming months. And this would be very beneficial, I assure you.”

Azana: ”And now we come to it, Mr. Eden. If I do this thing for you. What does England do for me? For Spain?”

Eden: ”The British Empire can offer much to Spain. You are in need of economic investments, the provisions of cheap credits and loans.”

Azana: ”So kind of you. Though I was thinking of something of a more...material..nature.”

Eden: ”Ah yes. Well, economic resources are not off the table. Unfortunately, Prime Minister Chamberlain is reluctant to provide assistance of a more military nature.”

Azana: ”And yet you ask me to have my government steer an unpopular course? Surely we need the tools to retain that course should something unfortunate happen? Another...rebellion, as you call it?”

Eden: ”Your point is noted, President Azana. When I return to London tomorrow I shall pass on your words. Thank you for a most productive meeting.”

Azana: ”And I you, Mr. Eden. I hope Spain sees your return soon. England and Spain have much to discuss, I am sure.”

1 July 1937

Chamberlain: ”I am of the opinion that I was a touch hasty on your last report, Anthony. The reports from Madrid are worrisome these days and I fear Azana might steer a leftist course just to satisfy his critics.”

Eden: ”You’re prepared to take the steps? Military material and technologies?”

Chamberlain: ”Some, Anthony, some. I’ve no objections to rifles and a few old tanks. Some of our second-line fighters might be put to good use down there as well. But nothing naval, of course. Spain doesn’t need a battleship to suppress rebels. And for heaven’s sake, we keep this quiet. Yet it is important the Britain soothe Azana’s nerves before he tries to soothe the Communists. Send Leslie in here. I’ll need the War Office’s views on this.”

Eden: ”Yes, of course. Oh, you wanted my briefing?”

Chamberlain: ”Hmm...well, Leslie can wait five minutes. Give me a quick rundown. Anything major to be concerned about?”

Eden: ”This came over the wire from Dublin, Prime Minister. The Irish have narrowly approved the new constitution.”

Chamberlain: ”I’m not sure if I’m disappointed or relieved. A thorn has been removed from the British hide, Mr. Eden. We should be thankful. I take it you have the final document there? I might glance over it later.”

Eden: ”Yes, sir. de Valera drafted it himself. It’s basically an assertion of legal nationalism, as he likes to call it, ‘constitutional autochthony’. It’s the culmination of his attempts to purge the 1922 Constitution of all disagreeable references...the Anglo-Irish Treaty, the Oath of Allegiance. It’s written in both languages. Naturally, I’ve provided you the English copy, Prime Minister.”

Chamberlain: ”I should certainly hope so. You said the vote was narrow?”

Eden: ”Yes, I have the figures here. The opposition was mainly Fine Gael, Labour, and some Commonwealth supporters. But the Fianna Fáil had enough power to ram it through the Dáil Éireann.”

Chamberlain: ”Well, I hope the Irish are satisfied now. What else, Anthony?”

Eden: ”Let’s see. A summary of MacKenzie King’s visit to Berlin. I also added something on the Duke of Windsor’s wedding.”

Chamberlain: ”So this abdication business is brought to rest at last? I only hope that Edward thinks Ms. Simpson was worth the cost. Now we just need for him to stay away from Berlin. Though I note that my Canadian counterpart has no such reluctance either?”

Eden: ”I think Prime Minister King was simply looking for an on the spot appraisal of the situation and of Herr Hitler himself.”

Chamberlain: ”A useful idea, actually. It might be good for me to meet with Herr Hitler myself one day. The better to assess the man. Is that it?”

Eden: ”Just the bit on Japan, sir. Furimaro Konoye has become the new Prime Minister.”

Chamberlain: ”Ah, yes. The businessman. I think that’s a good thing. He’s no fool for militarism and he’ll seek coalition.”

Eden: ”He’ll have to. He’s very unpopular in Japanese military circles. Konoye will need a power base to retain power.”

Chamberlain: ”Well, it’s a reassuring move nonetheless. Alright, enough of this. I’d better talk to Leslie about Spain. Send him in.”

 

[Mettermrck]

10 July 1937

Chamberlain: ”How serious?”

Hore-Belisha: ”From the reports of our attache, fighting broke out at Lukouchiao. Japanese forces were holding maneuvers near there. It’s a strategic rail junction not from Peiping. Needless to say, the actions were illegal with regards to the local settlements in North China. Supposedly a Japanese soldier went missing, and they demanded admittance to the city of Wanping to search for him.”

Eden: ”A convenient excuse.”

Hore-Belisha: ”Indeed. The Chinese refused, the Japanese launched an attack on the city, and the garrison resisted.”

Chamberlain: ”So the Japanese have a missing man...and they assault the city where their man might be? Rather drastic of them, wouldn’t you say? How bad is the fallout, Anthony?”

Eden: ”Right now things are quiet. Both sides quickly raced to settle their differences and they patched up the peace in North China with a deal yesterday. Whether it lasts? That remains to be seen.”

Chamberlain: ”Well, let’s hope it does. Things are tense enough in Europe with having to add to the confusion with troubles in Asia.”


15 July 1937

SUMMARY OF THE REPORT OF THE PALESTINE ROYAL COMMISSION.

The Members of the Palestine Royal Commission were :-

Rt. Hon. Earl Peel, G.C.S.I., G.B.E. (Chairman).
Rt. Hon. Sir Horace Rumbold Bart., G.C.B., G.C.M.G., M.V.O. (Vice-Chairman).
Sir Laurie Hammond K.C.S.I., C.B.E.
Sir Morris Carter, C.B.E.
Sir Harold Morris, M.B.E., K.C.
Professor Reginald Coupland, C.I.E.

Mr. J. M. Martin was Secretary.

Ormsby-Gore: ”Prime Minister, the plan of the Peel Commission is simple. It is their decided opinion that with the recent Arab troubles of last and the increase in Jewish immigration, that steps should be taken to demarcate the Palestine mandate into specified ‘zones’ for each group. Essentially, we should work towards the creation of a Jewish and an Arab state and a third, internationalized zone.”

Chamberlain: ”And what territories would these states comprise? Are you saying the Mandate should cease?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”The Report advocates precisely that, Prime Minister. The map here indicates what the authors have in mind.”

Ormsby-Gore: ”As you can see, under this plan, the Mandate would terminate and Palestine would be divided into three areas: a Jewish State including the whole of the Galilee, the whole of the Jezreel Valley, the greater part of the Beisan and all of the coastal plain from Ras el-Nakura in the north to Beer-Tuvia in the South, an Arab State containing the rest of Palestine west of the Jordan together with Transjordan, and a British enclave remaining under Mandate, containing Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Nazareth on a permanent basis and as a temporary measure the towns of Haifa, Acre, Tiberias and Safed, which would ultimately become part of the Jewish State.”

Chamberlain: ”It’s an ambitious plan, I’ll grant you that. Has the Colonial Office factored in how the Jewish and Arab communities will view this Report?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”We are...optimistic...in that regard, Prime Minister.”

Chamberlain: ”I see. Well, we shall certainly study the report closely, but I am not so sure if such steps are ‘healthy’ for that region...at this time. We shall see. Thank you for bringing this to me.”


19 July 1937

Cooper: ”The first thousand arrived a few days ago. They’ll stake out the new encampment, and prepare for the arrival for the rest of the division. We’ll have the entire division in place by the end of the month, including the heavy stuff.”

Inskip: ”And Alanbrooke?”

Cooper: ”He arrived with the first boats. Sharp man, that one. He’ll whip him into shape, and you and I can breathe a little easier about the Canal.”

Inksip: ”A little. I’d still feel better with an extra division, but the Prime Minister is adamant on curtailing more expenditures.”

Cooper: ”I just wish we could deploy on the Libyan border. The Italians have a nasty habit of practicing maneuvers just across from Sidi Barrani. I’d sure like to show them we’re watching.”

Inskip: ”Money and fuel, Duff. Money and fuel. Maneuvers of our own require both, and we both know that none is forthcoming. So we’ll have to settle for sitting next to the Canal.”

General Alan Francis Brooke commanded the 4th Division in 1937 as part of the woefully inadequate steps taken by Britain to secure Egypt and the Suez Canal​

23 July 1937

Chamberlain: ”It didn’t last long, did it?”

Eden: ”I’m afraid not, sir. The Japanese are fully committed now. They’ve launched full-scale attacks all along the line. Holding them back could prove difficult.”

Chamberlain: ”There’s always time for negotiations. Make sure our man in Peking knows that. How could this have happened?”

Cooper: ”Details are sketchy, sir, but from what we know, that settlement of a few weeks ago was a patch at best. It was bound to come apart. The Japanese were still upset at the incident of the 7th, they laid down terms, and the Chinese would not agree to them.”

Chamberlain: ”What kind of terms?”

Eden: ”They wanted the KMT to take responsibility, for the lead general to apologize, the suppression of anti-Japanese activity.”

Cooper: ”They wanted to humiliate the KMT.”

Chamberlain: ”I see. Your honest impressions then. How bad is it?”

Cooper: ”It’s serious this time, Prime Minister. I think both sides are committed to full-scale action. The Japanese are tired of negotiations...they’re going for the capital. The Chinese are tired of giving into the Japanese...they will defend themselves.”

Eden: ”I’m inclined to agree with Mr. Cooper here. The diplomatic situation is tighter than what I am used. Both the Japanese and Chinese governments are very quiet on the subject of negotiations.”

Chamberlain: ”Nevertheless, you will keep up the efforts. I’d hate for this situation to escalate. I had hoped Konoye's appointment would be a positive sign.”

Eden: ”We’re certainly applying our full efforts, but the escalation has already begun.”

Japanese artillery bombards Chinese positions near the Marco Polo Bridge – July 1937​

 

[Mettermrck]

3 August 1937

Chamberlain: ”Well, then. Occasionally, something works out, I see.”

Eden: ”I am not sure of the long-term implications, Prime Minister, but Japan’s diplomatic protests will certainly strain their relationship with Germany. Their military mission in China is a thorn in their side and from what our attaché in Nanking tells us, the German government refuses to withdraw General von Falkenhausen and his men.”

Chamberlain: ”I am put in the most peculiar position, Anthony, where I am actually glad to see German influence somewhere in the world, if it means China can better defend itself against Japan.”

German diplomatic influence +3​

15 August 1937

Cooper: ”Reports are difficult to verify, sir, which is why we’re having difficulties sketching out an accurate portrayal of the situation in North China.”

Chamberlain: ”I don’t need a book, Duff. An outline will do. How far are the Japanese armies from Peking?”

Cooper: ”If the latest intercepts are to be believed? Less than twenty miles. Herauchi’s lead columns are flanking the city to the east, putting them in an anvil between his and Hato’s forces. The garrison commander, Fu Tso-yi, has asked the Generalissimo for permission to evacuate his command. I fear, however, that he’ll have to stay for a lot longer and risk encirclement.”

Chamberlain: They’ve been planning this operation for some time, I see. It’s too coordinated and too organized not to be prearranged. Very well, Duff, I’ll let you off the hook for today, but I need all the information on China I can get. The Japanese are destabilizing East Asia as we speak, and every bit of intel is vital. Anthony, what do you have for me?”

Eden: ”Just the diplomatic briefing for today. They confirmed El Salvador’s withdrawal from the League this morning. More fallout from the embargo mess in Spain. The conflict’s over, but Latin America is still bitter over the whole affair.”

Chamberlain: ”No concern of ours. Anything else?”

Eden: ”There’s something brewing in Iraq. Their military leader, General Bakr Sidqi, was assassinated a few days ago in Mosul...by a Kurd. Their nationalists are agitating the government and things are in jeopardy as we speak.”

Chamberlain: ”What do you think?”

Eden: ”Well, they’re calling for their Prime Minister’s resignation...Hikmat Sulayman. Such a move would only confirm the military’s dominance over their government. I would ask that we be concerned, Prime Minister.”

Chamberlain: ”We are, of course. But without anything threatening, I will not countenance anything overt on our part. Instruct our attaché in Baghdad to be watchful, of course, but that is as far as I will go on this. What’s next?”

Eden: ”The Canadian issue. Prime Minister King just announced the formation of a royal commission this morning, to study the amendment of the North America Act.”

Chamberlain: ”Oh dear. What does the Prime Minister want now?”

Eden: ”It’s the whole legislative mess they’re having. The Bennett government’s reforms, sort of like the American ‘New Deal’, was struck down two years ago by the Canadian Supreme Court. The Judicial Committee of the Privy Council upheld the decision last year and now Prime Minister King thinks that in light of this, a closer look at our relationship with Canada is necessary.”

Chamberlain: ”Ah yes. The Rowell Commission. Well, King is after national unity, and if he can do so via a look at economic reforms, then he’ll do it. But he couches it in something like this. Well, we cannot afford to alienate Canada at a time like this. We must appear to be supportive of his efforts.”


27 August 1937

Cooper: ”Twenty-seven planes total so far. Forty-five when we’re done. The latest model Hurricanes, Minister.”

Inskip: ”Excellent. That’ll give Benito pause before he pours into Egypt. It’s not much, Duff, I know, but hopefully it can hold the Canal if need be until reinforcements arrive. Now what time does that fellow from Capetown arrive?”

Cooper: ”0600 tomorrow, Minister. Their equipment is already pre-positioned at Sandhurst and they’ll give a three hour demonstration. I’ve instructed most of the generals to be there.”

Inskip: ”Sooo...the South Africans think they have something to teach us about artillery, do they? It’s a strange world we live in, Duff, when the children lecture the parents.”

Cooper: ”It’s awkward, of course. Yet they have made good strides in infantry support guns, particularly with the higher calibres...70 to 90mm. I definitely think it’s worth a second look, no matter what our personal feelings.”

South African developments in basic artillery pieces was useful to the British army tactics that were developed in the late 1930s​

Inskip: ”Well, now I must be off. The Prime Minister is very upset over that Japanese attack yesterday and he wants to know what we intend to do about it.”

Cooper: ”What can we do about it? He won’t let us send a single additional gun, plane, or ship to Hong Kong, so we’re stuck with a ceremonial presence at best.”

Inskip: ”Exactly what I think. And the Japanese are claiming they mistook the Ambassador’s car for a military bus or truck. The Prime Minister will have to accept the explanation, of course, since he’s not prepared to move against Japan over this.”

Cooper: ”A pity. What with this and their declaration of blockade, Japan is effectively cutting us off from China without a whimper on our part.”


1 September 1937

Eden: ”Late night, Duff?”

Cooper: ”No no. Just my son. He listened to the Farr-Louis fight last night and I haven’t heard the end of it since.”

Chamberlain: ”Farr-Louis?”

Cooper: ”Eh, pardon me, sir. Tommy Farr, the Welshman. Went 15 rounds against Joe Louis last night. In boxing, sir. Need less to say, the whole country is pretty worked up about it, especially Wales.”

31 August 1937 – Welshman Tommy Farr goes the distance against heavyweight champion Joe Louis, the ‘Bronx Bomber’

Chamberlain: ”Well, my congratulations to Wales. Now if we could move on to business? I believe you have more on China?’

Cooper: ”Yes, of course, sir. We got confirmation this morning on Peking’s fall. Tso-yi’s forces withdrew to the north and west. Japanese columns are swinging southwest, and have cut the main Chinese line in two, so that there’s a defensive position in the far north as well as a main line protecting the heart of the country to the South, along the Yellow River.”

By August, the Japanese invasion into China was yielding massive dividends, splitting the Nationalist armies in two and seizing the strategic city of Peking​

Chamberlain: ”How bad is it?”

Cooper: ”It could be worse, sir. The Chinese avoided encirclement in the field and their armies are intact. Plus, the Chinese have massive reserves and lots of territory to spare. It’s a quick initial victory for the Japanese, but they haven’t won the war yet by a long shot.”

Eden: ”There is the difficulty of the blockade, Prime Minister. Japanese ships now dominate the South Chinese coast with impunity. Hong Kong is becoming increasingly isolated as well as the Mission in Shanghai.”

Chamberlain: ”We’ve been over this, all of you. I am not about to risk open war over this. The Japanese actions are rash and regrettable, but we will do everything we can to hold them back and make them see reason...short of open conflict.”

 

[Mettermrck]

6 September 1937

Eden: ”There’s definite indications of some dissent in Konoye’s government. The whole Tsingtao affair is giving him grief.”

Chamberlain: ”And why not? He’s show a rather stiff arm over this whole China affair, but leaving your own civilians to fend for themselves? In a war zone? Shows complete lack of moral character, gentlemen. And it begs the question...if Japan treats its own citizens this way, how will they treat Chinese civilians?”

Citing ‘tight resources’, Japan refused to evacuate its 250 civilians from Tsingtao,
a move which caused some grumblings in Tokyo circles​

Japan’s dissent +1​

Hore-Belisha: ”I’ve a feeling that we are going to find the answer to that question very soon. The Japanese are still advancing on all fronts, and thus far their gains in the northeast have been impressive.”

Chamberlain: ”Impressive to them, perhaps, but not to me.”

Hore-Belisha: ”Of course, sir. The early reports I’ve gotten indicate that they’re moving south, using a series of rumored amphibious landings, the first of which is on the Qingdao peninsula here.”

After their initial thrust into northeast China, Japan began to concentrate on an amphibious drive to the south​

Hore-Belisha: ”I got a message off the teletype this morning...says their man Aoki is leading the attack. A single division of cavalry, a quick thrust to the southeast, and he unhinges China’s entire Yellow River position. It’s a bold move, considering Aoki’s heavily outnumbered.”

Inskip: ”It’s momentum, then, not numbers.”

Hore-Belisha: ”Precisely. One note, however, is that the Chinese launched a counter-attack at Jinan here, just west of Qingdao, isolating Aoki from the main Japanese armies. There’s danger and potential here for both sides.”

Chamberlain: ”Anthony, your man in Peking?”

Eden: ”He’s fine, sir. However, the garrison commander won’t see him and he’s in hiatus right now, what they’re calling a ‘friendly detention’...for his own safety.”

Hore-Belisha: ”That’s preposterous!”

Chamberlain: ”Yet not surprising. Very well then, don’t push the issue, but tell him to keep trying.”

15th September 1937

Eden: ”Here’s the final report, sir, just sent in this morning by courier.”

Chamberlain: ”Good, good...let’s see...The Nyon Conference of 1937 on the Prevention of Piratical Acts in the Mediterranean and Turkey. Someday, Anthony, you’ll have to persuade me that this was all true. Pirate submarines? In the Mediterranean?”

Eden: ”I can assure you it is, and the Turks will be the first to vouch for them. It’s widely believed that these are the last remnants of the rebel elements of Spain’s navy. The last few submarines. The Turks have been plagued with attacks by these mystery submarines since August.”

Chamberlain: ”Hmm, well, this should put a stop to them. So the Turks will patrol the Dardanelles..good. Excellent, Ataturk’s even agreed to provide bases. Duff? What do you have available?”

Cooper: ”I have six destroyer groups at Alexandria, including two A-types, so I think we’re in pretty good shape. Putting in at Cyprus and Crete, we should have no problems with our own patrol zones.”

Chamberlain: ”Good. Anthony? What about the Italians? Are they balking on this?”

Eden: ”Mussolini regards the whole affair as being unbecoming of a Great Power. Exact quote, Prime Minister. I think he’ll come around though, as his own commerce is threatened by the submarines. We want Italy to patrol around the Balearics out here to Sardinia.”


21 September 1937

Swinton: ”Two new squadrons, based here in the north, one at Sheffield, and the other at Hull. It’ll take time to train up the pilots, of course, but I’m estimating only a few months before both are online.”

Inskip: ”That’s what I wanted to hear. And you’ve sent the third off?”

Swinton: ”Yes, I’ve ordered one of the active squadrons to take priority for the next Hurricanes coming off the production line. My men are most impressed with it so far. It’s a solid, dependable fighter, and we’ll take as many of them as we can get.”

Inskip: ”Well, I’m afraid you won’t get much beyond what you’ve already received. Five squadrons...that’s all that we’ve been allocated for Home Defense. It’s not much at all. I wouldn’t feel safe unless we had fifteen!”

Swinton: ”You’re not alone in that sentiment, Minister. But...an increase in fighter strength by 2/3rds, the Hurricane design...the new Spitfire prototype...we’re not standing idly by.”

Despite innovative designs, British fighter production in the late 1930s was slow​

29 September 1937

Eden: ”He stayed for four days. The Chancellor put on quite a show for him, too. Full of pomp, ritual, and bombastic oratory. Just the sort of stuff Mussolini likes, I’m afraid.”

Chamberlain: ”Yes, but how serious is it? We didn’t censure the Canadian Prime Minister for visiting Herr Hitler earlier this year, did we? If the Italian dictator wants to visit his German counterpart...it’s unfortunate, yes, but I really don’t see what we can do.”

Eden: ”At minimum, it should put us on our guard, Prime Minister. Italy probably feels like an international pariah right now with all the fallout over Abyssinia. He could be looking for friends.”

Chamberlain: ”Hmph. Well, there’s no worse choice he could make for friends than Herr Hitler...except perhaps the Russians. Very well then, consider me on guard. What else do you have?”

Eden: ”You wanted the text of Secretary Hull’s message on China?”

Chamberlain: ”Ah, yes, I did. I’m glad to see President Roosevelt starting to take a sensible line on this whole Chinese affair. It could help if we can get the United States to join our diplomatic efforts...it might bring Konoye’s government around.”

US warentry +3 (cumulative)​

Eden: ”It’s an official letter of protest, claiming Japan’s violation of the Kellogg-Briand Act.”

Chamberlain: ”Yes, I see. ‘. . . for nations today are so interdependent that the repercussions of war affect neutrals.’ Good line. Well, it appears that Hull is being sensible enough here. What can we do on this?”

Eden: ”Officially, this is the American’s move. On our part, however, we can pass over a quiet note through channels, expressing our...interest...in the American position on China.”

Chamberlain: ”Well, this will be difficult. Both Germany and Japan have rejected participation on the League’s Far East Advisory Committee. It will be difficult to find resolution without the major parties on board. Anything else?”

Eden: ”Leslie wanted me to pass around that memo on Palestine.”

Chamberlain: ”Oh dear, yes. Things heating up there again?”

Eden: ”Yes. The Arabs have rejected the Peel Committee settlement outright.”

Chamberlain: ”Disappointing. So they’re attacking villages again?”

Eden: ”Yes, Prime Minister. Their so-called Higher Committee is taking the violent tact this time around and there’s little talk of simply a general strike. And it’s not just the Arabs. The Etzel have their own programs of reprisal...Jabotinsky is firmly in charge now. ”

Chamberlain: ”Well, I leave it to Leslie and the garrison there to keep this affair well in hand.”

 

[Mettermrck]

2 October 1937

Chamberlain: Let’s see. ‘Because of persistent terrorism and the murder of the acting district commissioner of Galilee’, and so on and so forth. How effective have these measures been so far, Arthur?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”Regrettable, but it was a bold move. The Arabs have never been content, and this Peel Commission business has only served to stir them up. Most unsettling, Prime Minister. If it was my decision, I would’ve rounded up both the Arabs and the Jewish leaders. Ship both to the Seychelles, I say.”

Chamberlain: ”Hmm, yes. Well, one measure at a time, Arthur. For now, the Arab High Committee can enjoy the hospitality of the Seychelles. Now, how effective has it been?”

Ormsby-Gore: ”It’s too early to tell yet, Prime Minister. Our earliest reports indicate that things are a touch quieter in Palestine, so it could be a positive indication.”

Chamberlain: ”Let’s hope so, for that’s precisely I want the colonies to be. Quiet.”


6 October 1937

Chamberlain: ”Samuel, I had thought that the National Order Act took care of this sort of thing. And now I come to find that Mosley and his fellows marched from Bemondsey to Westminster for a speech in Southwark Park?”

Hoare: ”Yes, Prime Minister. It was outside the traditional East London routes the BUF supporters favor, so there were technically no bans in place under the Act, and they were not wearing political uniforms.”

Chamberlain: ”What sort of numbers are we talking about here?”

Hoare: ”Well, their propagandists claim that over 150,000 marched through Bemondsey, but that’s highly unlikely. My internal sources tell me that BUF membership has declined significantly since Cable Street and is estimated at 20,000.”

Chamberlain: ”One mark in our favor then. Was it violent?”

Despite the passage of the National Order Act in 1936, the BUF was still active in subsequent years, despite declining membership​

Hoare: ”There were...eh, moments, when it got dicey. About 15,000 people turned out to stop the march in Bemondsey, and put up makeshift barricades. There was some jostling and shouting, though it didn’t turn into a full-scale riot, fortunately. Mosley and his fellows did an end run and made it to Westminster with none the wiser. After that, the protestors gave up. He said his piece, and they went home.”

Chamberlain: ”I still don’t like it. It’s the last thing we need with international tensions so volatile now. A vocal fascist movement in our own country? I want to keep a tight leash on this gang, Samuel. Right then. Anthony. I wanted your thoughts on President Roosevelt’s speech last night. The quarantine issue? I intend to make a statement on the speech but wanted to get your opinions first.”

Eden: ”Well, I think it’s in line with our common policies of neutrality and non-intervention, particularly in China. It could signal a potential for cooperation on our parts in putting diplomatic pressure on the belligerents to stand down.”

Chamberlain: ”Good, good. It sounds like you and I are of the same opinion then. In his declaration of the necessity for a return to a belief in the pledged word and the sanctity of treaties he has voiced the convictions of this country as well as of his own, and in his call for a concerted effort in the cause of peace he will have this government wholeheartedly with him.”


19 October 1937

Eden: ”Some twenty thousand, sir. All Haitians. It was on Trujillo’s orders. Mainly because Haiti had identified covert Dominican spies and executed them.”

Chamberlain: ”These Caribbean states never grow up, do they. Well, what is the American position?”

Eden: ”Their Secretary of State, Mr. Hull, is demanding mediated negotiations and reparations. Trujillo will cave, though I’ve no idea how harsh the settlement will be.”

Haiti –5 dissent
Dominican Republic –5 dissent
United States – 100 steel to the Dominican Republic​

Chamberlain: ”Well, we’ll leave that to the President’s good graces. You had a report on Czechoslovakia?”

Eden: ”There are some scattered reports on some rioting in the Sudetenland. That’s the portion in the northwest of the country. A significant German population, and there’s been concern of late that this portion of the population is becoming agitated, particularly in light of Herr Hitler’s recent maneuvers in the past few years.”

Chamberlain: ”Indeed. What do they want?”

Eden: ”Their leader, one Konrad Henlein, is calling for autonomy. He leads the Sudeten German Party (SGP) and there was a march at Teplitz three days ago. The Czechoslovak authorities broke it up.”

Chamberlain: ”And this just adds to the nationalist tension. First, the anti-Jewish riots in Danzig and now this. I’m becoming more and more inclined to think, Anthony, that we cannot simply be passive and let Europe work itself into a frenzy. I need to speak with Halifax on this. It might be useful to go to the source, and meet with the Germans. Find out their thoughts on this.”

Eden: ”Do you think Germany is involved?”

Chamberlain: ”I have no idea, but that’s not the point. If German nationals are rioting in Czechoslovakia, then Germany is going to be involved. It’s far better for us to find out what each side’s intentions are now, when things are just starting to develop, then wait for it to flare up.”


20 October 1937

Captain Reginald Anderson, Projects Bureau: ”Simply put, sir. The electronics program, both military and civilian, has weakened of late due to budget cuts which means less hours put in and less staff to handle these projects. And now Rutherford’s gone?”

Inskip: ”Yes. A strangulated hernia. His body will be cremated tomorrow. What a loss. The man was a colossus in science. How far are we lagging?”

The death of Ernest Rutherford in October 1937 represented a setback in British magnetron research​

Anderson: ”Well, sir, electronics is not a traditional military science where one can measure our success versus other nations. By lagging, I mean we’re not meeting our goals. We’ve scarcely begun research into the military applications of the cavity magnetron and now without Rutherford, civilian research at Cambridge is only going to slow in the coming months.”

Inskip: ”So when can we expect the first practical radar tests, then?”

Anderson: ”A couple years at least, sir. We’re simply not supported enough to give this project the attention it deserves.”


1 November 1937

Cooper: ”Thus far, the Chinese have blunted the Japanese advances in the Yellow River valley. Their armies in Jinan have held off several division-sized attacks and have kept the Japanese from advancing out of Qingdao. All in all, it exceeds our expectations.”

Eden: ”I wanted to add Governor Northcote’s input from Hong Kong. The Japanese blockade on South China is beginning to tell. I know our position is that as belligerents, we’re allowed to trade with the Chinese, but Northcote is reporting Japanese bombings of railroads in southern China, not too close to Hong Kong yet, but certainly with a view to stopping our material aid to Chiang’s forces.”

Alex Northcote, Governor of Hong Kong, 1937​

Chamberlain: ”Well, we can only act within our rights as neutrals. Certainly a note can be passed on to Konoye’s government, but let’s not press it. Duff, what else do you have?”

By October 1937, the Japanese shifted their attention to area northwest of Peking​

Cooper: ”Early indications, sir. More speculation, but we believe the Japanese are gearing up for an offensive to the northwest of Peking, into the Datong sector. Clearing the Chinese from that region would protect their southern advance, and they could renew their offensive with security. Indications are an offensive of at least eighteen divisions, with a two to one numerical superiority. Possibly more troops could come down from Manchuria.”

Chamberlain: ”It never ends, does it?”

 

[Mettermrck]

Hitler invited me to begin our discussion, which I did by thanking him for giving me this opportunity. I hoped it might be the means of creating better understanding between the two countries. The feeling of His Majesty's Government was that it ought to be within our power, if we could once come to a fairly complete appreciation of each other's position, and if we were both prepared to work together for the cause of peace, to make a large contribution to it. Although there was much in the Nazi system that profoundly offended British opinion, I was not blind to what he had done for Germany, and to the achievement from his point of view of keeping Communism out of his country.

- Lord Halifax’s Diary

21 November 1937

Chamberlain: ”Now then. I’ve read your report and I think you have a fair assessment of the situation. But I wanted to see you in person because...I want you to give me your honest impression of the man. Of Herr Hitler. What’s he like?”

Halifax: ”Unremarkable at first...it is easy to underestimate the man the first time you see him. He looked plain, ordinary. For a few moments, I could not believe that this was the meteoric Chancellor of Germany. Surely not this man. And then I sat down opposite him and I saw them. Those eyes...sharp, piercing, animated. I knew then I was dealing with a man of great intelligence, and no small charisma”

Chamberlain: Well...I don’t think any of us doubted his charisma. What were his thoughts on Czechoslovakia?”

Halifax: ”Most certainly, amongst others. He considers it a central part of what he calls ‘the larger issue of German beritage.’ He mentioned Austria, Danzig, and the Sudetenland. And he talked often about Versailles and its partiality to ethnic boundaries.”

Chamberlain: ”And now he’s leaning towards his own ethnic boundaries?”

Halifax: ”Indeed. I am impressed with the man’s anti-communist credentials. I don’t think England should be concerned on that score. His interests in the situation in Czechoslovakia appear to be centered on the protection of German minorities.”

Chamberlain: ”Understandable. What is your assessment on his openness to further discussions? Can we work with the man?”

Halifax: ”I believe so. He is very insistent on the ethnic issue, though he did open appear to my mention of future talks and negotiations”

Chamberlain: ”Speaking of anti-communist...Anthony, you were mentioning the Italians earlier. On Mussolini joining the Anti-Comintern Pact?”

German influence +7
Italian influence +5
Italian alignment towards fascism +10
Italian dissent –3​

Eden: ”Yes, sir, though I am of the opinion that we cannot judge Germany simply on its anti-communist stance. While it is heartening to see Germany lean against Russia...any combination of Germany and Italy, not to mention the Empire of Japan, is ominous in its own respect.”

Chamberlain: ”Perhaps. But Halifax here is more optimistic than you, Anthony, and so am I. I for one am pleased to see the Italians move against the Communists more vigorously.”


23 November 1937

Inksip: ”Unbelievable. I would almost never think it possible.”

Hore-Belisha: ”You’d be surprised, Minister. The French used 22,000 pigeons during the Siege of Paris in 1871. And in the Great War, we used over one hundred thousand. So it’s natural that the staff would retain some interest in carrier pigeons, particularly for communication.”

Inksip: ”It’s the rationality behind it all, Leslie. We press the government daily for increases in the Army budget, and yet today they set up a new subcommittee for the Imperial Defence Committee. For a national pigeon service? Surely that raises even your eyebrows.”

Carrier pigeons were a surprisingly effective means of battlefield communication for British troops in the field​

Hore-Belisha: ”Well, they derive the birds from civilian stocks. Pre-trained, very effective. I’ve heard tales of birds delivering their messages wounded and then dropping dead on arrival. Remarkable...they even have a Dickin Medal for them.”

Inskip: ”I suppose. And I must say it does not surprise me where the government’s priorities are these days for the Army. Not enough for guns and tanks, but plenty for the birds!”


1 December 1937

Hore-Belisha: ”They have fourteen Chinese divisions penned up west of Peking, and with the Communists so close, we’re unsure how effectively, if at all, the Chinese armies are being supplied in the field. The Japanese attack on Datong was a disaster. The northern armies are broken and falling back. And now, we’ve gotten reports on a breach of the Yellow River line.”

Eden: ”Yes, and we now have reports on the Soviets taking a bigger interest in China...sending material aid...and not just to the Communists either.”

Chamberlain: ”So there’s a danger here. Russians and the Japanese. This conflict could get out of control.”

Soviet influence +2
Soviet manpower –1
Soviet supplies –5000
Chinese (CHI) supplies +5000
Chinese (CHI) manpower –10
Chinese add_division fighter, fighter-bomber, and armor
Kunming flak +2​

Eden: ”What concerns me the most is the credibility this will give the Soviets in China. Thus far, Chiang has only received aid from the Russians, and earlier, to a lesser extent, from the Germans.”

Chamberlain: ”We cannot afford intervention at this time, Anthony. To do so would undermine our efforts at conciliation. Active involvement will have to be deferred.”

 

[Mettermrck]

12th December 1937

Chamberlain: ”Look, Anthony. You have a man in Rome, yes? Have him see Mussolini...talk to him. Surely we can work with them, encourage them, and bring them back into the fold? What kind of example does it set for a major country like Italy to unilaterally from the League.”

Eden: ”There are difficulties, minister. The Italian language was quite strong, and it is clear that there are strains over past disputes in Ethiopia and Spain. It will be an uphill movement, sir, even if there is a chance at success. Remember their words, sir. And I quote: ‘We had not forgotten, and shall not forget, the opprobrious attempt at economic strangulation of the Italian people perpetrated at Geneva .In these circumstances our presence at the door of Geneva could not be tolerated any longer: it wounded our doctrine, our style, and our martial temperament’ The difficulties involved are apparent.”

Chamberlain: ”Yet we cannot ignore it, Anthony. The League is the most effective means for diplomatic resolution, and his trend of Italy towards Germany is worrisome. Did you read Herr Hitler’s statement? ‘At no period of its existence has it proved competent to make a useful contribution to the treatment of actual problems of world politics. On the contrary it has exercised only a harmful, even dangerous, influence on the whole political development of the post-war period. Under the protection of alleged ideals it became more and more the instrument of particular wirepullers of the Versailles order. Instead of guiding international politics along the road of fruitful development through a reasonable balance of the natural forces and needs of the nations, Geneva has principally occupied itself with the elaboration and application of methods for working against such a development.’”

Eden: ”Yet you believe we can work with the man?”

Chamberlain: ”We have no choice, Anthony. If you ignore those in power, even if their policies are...regrettable, then you ignore the paths that lead to keeping the peace, and you commit yourself to an unhappy course. Right, then. I need to be off for a meeting. If you have anything else, you can walk with me, and speak on the way.”

Eden: ”Yes, sir, thank you. You wanted the report on the Irish Constitution, which is coming into effect in a couple weeks.”

Chamberlain: ”Very well, let’s go.”


26 December 1937

Colonel Richard Butler, Staff, Army Proving Grounds, Salisbury: ”Quite so, sir. The New Zealander cannon has a range beyond anything we have under testing, let alone on the drawing board. It’s reliable, it’s rapid-firing, and the troops can handle it with a shorter training regimen than our own project.”[/color]

Inksip: ”Well, then. This is a serious touch of irony, Colonel. The Canadians teach us tank warfare, the South Africans teach us artillery, and now the New Zealanders have a 90mm howitzer that exceeds anything we’ve got. I’m starting to wonder who relies on whom in this Commonwealth. Very well, then, I’ll instruct one of my staff to be present at the demonstrations. Now I need to be off. His Excellency, the Viscount Swinton wants to show me the new tactical bomber....though why anyone would call it a Mosquito is beyond my comprehension.”

1 January 1938

Chamberlain: ”I had always thought New Years to be a reason for positive news.”[

Hore-Belisha: ”My apologies, sir, but this news could not in good conscience wait.”

Chamberlain: ”Very well, you have my attention.”

Hore-Belisha: ”This morning we received reports from China. Five days ago, the Chinese breached the Huayuankow Dike, flooding Chengchow.”

-50 infrastructure, -2 industry, -1 manpower
(Zhengzhou, Xuzhou, Jinan, Xinxiang, and Tianjin provinces)
Nationalist China +4 dissent
Japan –6 manpower​

Chamberlain: ”And this means...?”

Hore-Belisha: ”It means the Chinese are becoming desperate. With the breach of the Yellow River line, the Japanese are sweeping south towards Shanghai and the capital and Nanking. The Chinese decided to breach the dike which regulates water flow over a vast region of the river valley. Doing so severely hampers Japan’s ability to advance southward across this territory. However, it comes at a major price.”

Chamberlain: ”My God. You mean...they’d flood their own people?”

Inskip: ”They see it as a national emergency, Prime Minister. The figures are still to be tabulated, but we estimate that over four thousand villages and eleven cities will be flooded, not to mention the human coast. Deaths, and homelessness...we’re...we’re looking at millions, sir.”

Chamberlain: ”I...I simply cannot grasp such numbers, gentlemen. It cannot be as bad as that.”

Hore-Belisha: ”It is to the Chinese, sir, and they have good reason. Two days ago the Japanese moved into Shanghai, just as we feared...by sea. An amphibious end-run, independent of any flooding the Chinese may be contemplating. “

Hore-Belisha: With the Japanese advance from the Yellow to the Yangtze, and now the landings at Shanghai, there’s a threat of a major disaster along the Yangtze. This map here...”

Hore-Belisha: ”This shows the danger, sirs. If Chinese reports are to be believed, the bulk of their armored forces, their best divisions, are being outflanked northwest of Nanking, on the wrong side of the Yangtze. If the Japanese act decisively, they could trap the flower of the Nationalist army in coastal China. And that...that would open up the Yangtze valley for an inland advance. Not to mention the threat to Hong Kong.”

Cooper: ”Prime Minister, we need to send a message to the Japanese. Even if it’s a quiet move...just some act, some reinforcement or deployment that would remind the Japanese of our presence and our interests.”

Halifax: ”What do you have in mind, Duff?”

Cooper: ”The Penelope and Aurora just came off the docks this month. That’s two brand-new cruisers...add one of our newer destroyer squadrons, and we send that to Hong Kong, beef up the China Station. It’s a small step, and not overly provocative.”

Chamberlain: ”I’m not sure. I’m inclined to hold off on this one.”

Cooper: ”Prime Minister, please. The Japanese are bound to continue to use their navy for amphibious end-runs like they’ve done in Shanghai. If we want to deter them from the Hong Kong area, we’re going to need the extra ships.”

Chamberlain: ”Very well. Make the necessary arrangements.”

Cooper: ”Yes, sir, thank you, sir. They should be in Hong Kong sometime later this month.”

 

[Henry v. Keiper]

You know I learn a lot about British government reading this AAR.

 

[Mettermrck]

26 January 1938

Chamberlain: We’d best make it short today, Inksip. I have a meeting with the Foreign Secretary that’s rather important. You have five minutes.”

Inskip: ”Yes sir, thank you, sir. I just wanted to pass on the latest briefing from China.”

Chamberlain: ”Ah yes. What’s the state of affairs?”

Inskip: ”If reports are to be believed, the Chinese are massing at Nanking for a defense of the Yangtze valley. With the thrust from Shanghai and the fall of Huainan province, the situation is pretty critical.”

By the beginning of 1938, Japanese pressure on Nanking began to intensify​

Chamberlain: ”This is getting more and more difficult everyday. What prospects are we talking about?”

Inskip: ”The Chinese have large numbers in Nanking. This morning’s report estimates twenty-two divisions, though there’s no way of verifying that accuracy. Japanese forces are already on the north bank, and the first probing attacks have been reported.”

Chamberlain: ”I see. Keep me informed.”


1 February 1938

Chamberlain: ”Well, Halifax. No doubt you’ve heard?”

Halifax: ”Yes, I have, Neville. A most unfortunate situation. Regrettable that it could not be avoided.”

Chamberlain: ”Hmm, yes. Anthony and I had different ideas on the direction we want the Empire to take and he felt that he could no longer perform his duties in good conscience with that difference in viewpoint.”

Halifax: ”Well, Mr. Eden has ideas that are more appropriate for years now past. In these times, particularly with the situation in Germany, and the Hungarian rearmament, we need to tread lightly. The assertions of old have no place in today’s Europe.”

Chamberlain: ”I’m very glad you see it that way, Halifax, for it makes this next task much easier...and pleasant. You see, I wish you to step in and take over the Foreign Office. You did great work for me last year, and your meeting with Chancellor Hitler was most valuable. I need the kind of man whose leanings I can trust, and ensure the Britain presents the right front to its neighbors. Can I count on you?”

Halifax: ”Naturally. I’ll do whatever I can...you know that.”

Chamberlain: ”Excellent. Hailsham will take over as Lord President of the Council, and I’m asking Baron Maugham to move up to Lord Chancellor. Eden’s resignation will take effect this month, and I’d like you to move in immediately afterwards.”

Halifax: ”I will do so. What about the situation in central Europe?”

Chamberlain: ”Keep an eye on it, of course. Eden was too interventionist for this sort of thing. There’s a certain care and consideration that is needed when dealing with delicate relations such as these. And sadly, Halifax, it’s not just Eden. I’m going to have to take a closer look at the Cabinet, more so than I initially feared.”

 

[Mettermrck]

Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the waves!​

Britons never shall be slaves!​

His Majesty King George VI
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 1938​

Anthony Eden resigns
Lord Halifax moves from Lord President of the Council to Foreign Secretary
Viscount Hailsham becomes Lord President of the Council
Frederick Maugham, Baron Maugham becomes Lord Chancellor
Herbrand Sackville, 9th Earl de la Warr resigns as Lord Privy Seal, Leader of the House of Lords
Sir John Anderson becomes Lord Privy Seal, Leader of the House of Lords
Viscount Swinton resigns as Secretary of State for Air
Sir Kingsley Wood becomes Secretary of State for Air
Alfred Duff Cooper resigns as First Lord of the Admiralty
James Richard Stanhope, 7th Earl Stanhope becomes First Lord of the Admiralty​

Rt. Hon. Neville Chamberlain, 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. Viscount Hailsham, M.P. – Lord President of the Council
The Lord President of the Council is a 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. Sir John Simon, G.C.S.I., K.C.V.O., O.B.E., K.C., M.P. – Chancellor of the Exchequer
Chancellor of the Exchequer is the government minister responsible for financial matters


Rt. Hon. Frederick Maugham, 1st Baron Maugham – 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 Samuel Hoare, Bt, G.C.S.I., G.B.E., C.M.G., 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. Viscount Halifax, K.G., G.C.S.I., G.C.I.E., T.D. – 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. Sir John Anderson – 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 organization 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 Leslie Hore-Belisha, 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. – Secretary of State for Scotland


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


Rt. Hon. James Richard Stanhope, 7th Earl Stanhope – First Lord of the Admiralty


Rt. Hon. Sir Thomas Walker Hobart 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


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]

16 February 1938

Hore-Belisha: ”Our military attaché in Kunming is reliably informed, sir. Von Falkenhausen, von Seeckt, Bauer, and the others. A complete withdrawal of the German mission.”

Chamberlain: ”Meaning?”

Halifax: ”Meaning, no doubt, that Germany has reached an accommodation with the Japanese government, one that involves reducing tensions over China.”

Hore-Belisha: ”Not only that, but the withdrawal of Germany military support for the Chinese army will not bode well in the field. Japanese armies are bearing down the Yangtze valley, and this is an awful time to lose military aid.”

Halifax: ”Not to mention the diplomatic shift. It is clear the Japan is seeking to isolate China.”

China shifts +10 towards democratic​

23 February 1938

Halifax: ”It’s a lengthy list of concessions thus far, Neville. The Austrians have become much more accommodating of late to the Germans. They’ve appointed Seyss-Inquart to the Ministry of Security and Interior, they’ve declared an amnesty for their own Nazis, and now there’s word that they’re admitting the National Socialists into their Fatherland Front.”

Chamberlain: ”Their only legal political party. Convenient. All of which means what?”

Halifax: ”The ties between Germany and Austria are tightening at a rate we did not foresee. I am still not convinced that these are concessions granted willingly. We know of Schusnigg’s opposition to pressure from Hitler, and I’ve no doubt that there’s pressure being brought to bear here.”

Chamberlain: ”It’s a possibility. I’ve no doubt that Germany is pursuing advantage in Austria. What this adds up to in the long run, I know not. But this is what I was saying last week, Halifax. We coax Mussolini towards our position, and in so doing, deter Herr Hitler from acting most unseemly.”

Halifax: ”I agree, if our man in Italy has success, which thus far he has not.”

Chamberlain: ”Well, keep trying. As long as we continue negotiations, we can prevent tensions from coming to ahead. And I am convinced that Mussolini is most reluctant to see German influence in Austria increase. That’s our strategy, Halifax.”

Halifax: ”Very well.”

Chamberlain: ”What about Schusnigg’s visit to Berchtesgaden...on the 12th. Any more information on that?”

Halifax: ”Very little sir. We know Schusnigg and Hitler met. And certainly Austria was on the list of discussion. The subsequent concessions were no doubt the result of that. But was there anything more than that? I know not. And I doubt we will find out much beyond the official line.”


1 March 1938

Inskip: ”It’s all coming to a head in the Yangtze Valley, as we had foreseen earlier this month. Japanese pressure against Nanking is intensifying, and the Chinese are committing massive reserves in a bid to keep the Japanese north of the river.”

Inskip: ”Last month saw a major intensification in the fighting. Japanese attacks on Nanking continued to be thrown back, as much as four to five divisions. Latest reports indicate they’re preparing an even larger attack for the coming weeks, approximately eleven divisions.”

Chamberlain: ”What happens if Nanking falls?”

Hore-Belisha: ”Likely, the gate is open to southern China. Japanese forces can push up the Yangtze to threaten Kunming and Changsha. And they can also move down the coast, and threaten Hong Kong.”

Chamberlain: ”And what is your best assessment, Minister?”

Inskip: ”Well, sir. Last month was a bit of trade-off in China. Japanese forces took Nantong province, just north of Shanghai, yet the Chinese counterattacked and sporadic reports indicate that Shanghai is theirs once again. If this is true, than there is no Japanese soldier south of the Yangtze. They could try setting up a defensive corridor much like the old Yellow line.”

Hore-Belisha: ”A lot of good that’ll do them, sir. It’s a temporary pause for the Japanese. They’ll cross somewhere in force, unhinge the line, and then things will worsen in China. I do think the Chinese can possibly hold for several months, but not permanently.”

Halifax: ”The Japanese are certainly worried. Now, I’ve no indications of the details, but my men in China tell me that Japanese leaders are assembling a conference on Chinese strategy. What the specifics of this is, we know not. However, we’re optimistic in thinking that the stiff Chinese defense is giving the Japanese pause.”

Reloads japan_central.ai file​

Chamberlain: ”Interesting. I want you to learn more on this, Halifax. If the Japanese are pausing, then it could be an opening for renewed negotiations on this issue.”