Diary of Sir Courtenay Ilbert

This entry from the diary of Sir Courtenay Ilbert, Clerk of the House of Commons, offers a glimpse into public reaction to the declaration of war as he concludes, “War with Germany declared at 11pm. Great shouting in the streets.” Two days later the War Council met at 10 Downing Street to make the immediate preparations for conflict, debating where and how many troops should be sent overseas. It was agreed that 4 divisions should be sent to France.