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ANNEX I
COPY OF LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE WIRELESS TELEGRAPHY BOARD TO THE SECRETARY, CHIEFS OF STAFF COMMITTEE, DATED 27TH OCTOBER, 1941.
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X X X
Considerable confusion has occurred through the
misuse of various terms connected with radio communications. The word "radio" normally has the meaning of communications etc. effected by means of electro-magnetic waves. By International Convention this term covers, inter alia, wireless telegraphy, radio telephony, broadcasting and television.
On the introduction of R.D.F. (reflected direction finding), when it was considered inadvisable to draw attention to the use of this weapon, the term "radio" was introduced into the Services as a cover by which to designate personnel employed on these duties. Now that the existence of this weapon has been officially disclosed under the term of "radiolocation", it is desired to end the anomalous situation caused by the misuse of the various terms, and to revert to the more generally accepted meaning.
This question has been discussed by the Wireless Telegraphy Board, who have unanimously recommended that the terms should now be employed as in the attached Appendix to this letter. It is requested that the Chiefs of Staff Committee be asked to give their approval to this Appendix.
(Signed) C.V.L. LYCETT
Lt. Colonel.
X X X
(a)
APPENDIX.
Use of Terms "Radio", "Radiolocation" and "Wireless".
In future the word "radio" will cease to be used by the Services as having particular reference to R.D.F. but will normally be used in its broader sense as an inclusive term for all methods of signalling through space without connecting wires by means of electromagnetic waves.
cos The term "R.D.F." will be used by the Services in
(c)
place of "radio" in particular reference to Radiolocation. The term "Radiolocation" may be used by the Services in matter which is communicated to the public.
The word "wireless" (although strictly synonymous with "radio"), will be regarded by the Services as applying more particularly to communications, that is, Wireless Telegraphy and Telephony and their applications, including D. F., but excluding R.D.F. and other forms of Radio.
Wireless Telegraphy Board.
17th October, 1941.
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