Cabinet is Finally Summoned to Discuss the King's Affair

Friday 27th November 1936

Behind the Scenes

Baldwin finally summoned the Cabinet to discuss the King's affair, broadening the tiny circle of government figures officially in the know. Baldwin was probably motivated by the recognition that bringing ministers into his confidence would reduce the reduce of leaks, but the morganatic idea was discussed. The informal consensus was that the idea had no prospect of working, but it was formally decided to refer it to the Dominions. Ministers were asked to spread the rumour that the meeting had been hastily arranged to deal with the question of arms for Spain, a pretence that was also directed at the King himself.