20 SEPTEMBER 1940, Page 3

All this and much more will need to be done

if the structure of government and social services is to equal the magnificent spirit of the Londoners and the country. A new challenge faces the institutions and social services. Circulars are all right in peace-time when the pace of action can afford to be more leisurely, but now nothing but direct action and full use of the telephone can meet the new situation. Orders must be given to local authorities and personal supervision must ensure that all orders are promptly executed. This is not to supersede the vital local services, it is to direct and assist them with finance and personnel wherever necessary.