Correspondence with Sir Samuel Hoare

  • This material is held at
  • Reference
      GB 133 GDN/A/H63
  • Dates of Creation
      12 Jun 1925-27 Sep 1943
  • Physical Description
      35 pieces; 46 sheets

Scope and Content

Correspondence between Samuel John Gurney Hoare, 1st Viscount Templewood (1880-1959), politician, and W.P. Crozier, relating to requests and arrangements for multiple meetings between Hoare and Crozier to discuss a variety of political policies and subjects, including the [Commonwealth of] India Bill, naval policy and the fleet air arm, Hoare's work on penal reform, and air raid precautions. There are thanks from Hoare for a report in the Manchester Guardian of his speech [on his appointment as Chancellor of the University of Reading].

Also included is correspondence relating to Hoare's work as ambassador to Spain, with discussion of the frustrations and difficulties of the requirements of the role, the Spanish civil war, relations between Britain and Spain, the attempt to ensure Spain's neutrality [during the Second World War], views on Germany's strength and propaganda campaign in Spain, the danger of famine, the impact of Italy and in East Africa on Spain. Also included is reference to the situation in Greece, Iraq, Syria and Libya. There is discussion of the crucial role of [Winston] Churchill, prime minister, of Ireland, and a proposal for conscription in Ulster, and to the situation in India with regards to independence. There is reference to the debate in Britain as to the admittance of the communist party into the Labour party, with discussion of the dissolution of the Comintern [Communist International].

There is discussion of requests for meetings between Hoare and Crozier, and a letter of introduction from Hoare to Crozier for Arthur Yencken, diplomat. Also included is thanks from Hoare for a report in the Manchester Guardian of a speech by Hoare on [the views in Europe on the British war effort during the Second World War] and a request to be added to the list of subscribers for the paper, which is granted.