CAB80-25 — Page 44

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13.

(c) the R.A.F. observers have expressed the

view that the screens have been even more effective some distance downwind of the target, which suggests that, by a simple modification of the layout of generators, it will be possible to increase still further the efficiency of the screen over the target itself;

(a) the size of the smoke cloud (2,000 yds.

wide x 4-8 miles long) is greater than that reported in any previous report - the increased persistence of the smoke inay be due to lower winter temperatures.

None of the vital targets over which smoke schemes have been operated has sustained damage by bombing during smoke operations. At the Chiefs of Staff Committee meeting meeting on 28th October representatives of the Ministries of Aircraft Production and Supply wore emphatic that the psycho- logical effect of smoke screens on the factory worker was most beneficial and reassuring.

i+

14. Generators. In spite of intensive research work, has not been round possible to design an improved type of generator, but, as a result of experience in cperation, certain modifications have been made to the existing type which have improved its performance - in particular by reducing the likelihood of flaring and maintaining a more constant smoke output.

15. Complaints. A small number of complaints (27) have been received from time to time by the Ministry of Home Security - mainly from members of the public living near the generator sites. On the other hand, in letters to the Ministry the use of smoke as a means of defence against night bombing attacks is a frequent suggestion from members of the public, and several firms have asked whether smoke protection can be given to their premises.

16. Industrial haze.

Smoke abatement regulations have been waived in the large industrial areas, and it is new standard practice in such areas for all factories and cther premises to emit as much smoke as possible without undue loss of production.

17. Houehold grates. Trials have been carried out to determine the effectiveness of pitch sawdust briquettes as smoke producing agents, but no conclusive answer has yet been obtained owing to the difficulty of obtaining aerial observation. Public co-operation in the trials has been very good.

Progress has been made toward devising a smoke producing fuel for use on existing coal fires.

* C.0.S. (40) 363rd Meeting, Minute 1.

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