Secret Social Networking Report

RISE OF ”SOCIAL NETWORKS” ------------------------------------SECRET. ---------The Minister -----------------Ministry of Information ---------------------------------From Agent: T. Witter, Weds. 1st November, 1939 1. Reports coming in from sub-agents of startling rise of so-called ”social networks” in many sections of general population. 2. In essence, the chap or chapess on the Clapham Omnibus chats to his chums about, for example, the health benefits of the latest brand of cigarettes. That chum chats to his chums about same brand, trusting his chum's recommendation over that of the Minister. Message is thus amplified many-fold. 3. In many cases, such ”word-of-mouth” messages directly contrary to posters posted on same omnibuses, messages carried in radio broadcasts etc. 4. Messages often take form of short notes of mere few words, scribbled on scraps of paper and passed between acquaintances, for ease of reading and transference. Suspect foreign interference as messages resemble espionage language, shortened text, and somewhat base, colloquial language etc. 5. Initial discussions with heads of industry indicate disquiet that control of brand messages being lost to masses. Fear erosion of advertising trade.

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6. Ditto dissemination of political messages, esp. around time of General Election. Soundings in Westminster have uncovered fear that popular politician with mastery of such networks could use them to his advantage, by-passing B.B.C., cinema, newspapers etc. in order to win election. Particular fears from counterparts in U.S.A. that Presidential election could be won in such a manner. IN CONCLUSION:(1) Recommend advice from highest office on how to stem epidemic of ”word-of-mouth”. (2) Civil service task force to create brains trust to engineer messages for Ministry of Health on contagious nature of ”word-of-mouth” viruses, and patriotic duty of subjects to adhere to official line on public and commercial edicts. (3) Consider involvement of The Palace to emphasize dislike of such rampant textual intercourse and oral activity among H.M.'s subjects. (4) Recommend employing paid agents to act as advocates of Government positions, to help drive direction of messages where they exist. I will send you my latest status updates as they happen. Would appreciate immediate comment from you and colleagues. (Sgd. T. Witter)

Dated: Weds. 1st November, 1939

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