Correspondence between John Midgley (1911-2001), journalist, and W.P. Crozier, relating to a request for advice on entering journalism, with reference to the best course of study at Cambridge, and potential work experience on student newspapers, and at the Manchester Guardian, which is provided. There is discussion of a request to view specimens of work by Midgley, which are provided, and arrangements for a meeting between Midgley and Crozier. Also included is correspondence relating to a 4 week trial of employment for Midgley at the Manchester Guardian, accompanied by a related internal memorandum. There are requests for letters of recommendation for Midgley from W.H. Amitt at the News Chronicle, and Arthur Mann, at The Yorkshire Post, which are provided.
There are multiple requests to be considered for employment at the Manchester Guardian, with reference to occasional contributions made by Midgley which are published in the paper. There is an internal memorandum relating to discussion of making Midgley's position on the reporting staff permanent. Also included is discussion of requests by Midgley for increases in salary. There is correspondence relating to arrangements for Midgley's leaving the Manchester Guardian in order to go into the army [during the Second World War], with discussion of a request for a supplementary allowance from the paper during this time, which is declined. There is discussion of Midgley's request to be considered for employment as a foreign correspondent for the Manchester Guardian following the end of the war, which is granted.
There is also correspondence between Midgley and A.P. Wadsworth, relating to discussion of Midgley's employment as a foreign correspondent, with negotiations as to salary, terms of employment, and travel requirements, with reference to experience gained by Midgley during the war, and his dissatisfaction with the proposed salary on offer. There is discussion of a loan made by the paper to Midgley in order to buy a house. Also included is a letter of resignation from Midgley in order to take up a post at The Economist. There is a request by Midgley to be considered for re-employment, with suggestions as to potential work he might do as a foreign correspondent.