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News and publicity

The Government considered it important that the public should be kept clearly informed about the progress of the war and whatever new requirements had to be in place for their safety. The normal channels of newsagent shops and news vendors, news bulletins on the radio (wireless) and between films at the cinema were well-used, but this section is about the news and publicity channels relating specifically to the war that we don't see today: public information leaflets, posters, and cigarette cards.

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By the webmaster with collected recollections and additional research

The Public Information leaflets

There were five public information leaflets, which are reproduced elsewher. Just follow the links:

Public Info Leaflet 1: On government Contingency plans for the WW2 home front. This leaflet was produced and distributed before the war actually arrived. It is very thorough and the Government is to be congratulated on its foresight and care for detail. Most of what was planned did materialise in practice, but do realise that this leaflet comprised statements of intent. For what people actually did and how they felt about it, see the other links on the WW2 page.

Public Info Leaflet 2: On gas masks against poison gas

Public Info Leaflet 3: On evaculation of children

Public Info Leaflet 4: On food, shortages and rationing

Public Info Leaflet 5: On fire precautions

Why the Government considered that the leaflets were essential

The Government considered that the leaflets were essential for the following reasons:

• Every household needed clear, authoritative information.
• Radio ownership was not universal.
• Posters alone could not convey detailed instructions.
• Newspapers might be disrupted by bombing.
• Leaflets were cheap, fast to print, and could be physically kept for reference..

Availability, distribution and cost

The cost was not huge. The leaflets were printed in enormous quantities on cheap paper and delivery to households was often carried out by volunteers, wardens, and local council staff, so reducing cost.

Local councils were responsible for ensuring every household received essential information.

The Government had already built a nationwide distribution network through local authorities and the Civil Defence organisation.

The leaflets were also available in public places, like in post offices, local shops and displayed in public buildings and village halls and in work places like factories and transport hubs.

For the full picture of how the plans affected people, how they implemented them and their emotions throughout, check the links on the above menu and on the main WW2 page.

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