The Busy British Campaign of 1931

Stephen Constantine

This paper describes and analyses the impact of the UK government's 1931-32 Buy British camapign - a message that adorned trains, packaging and media in an effort to boost British goods both at home and in the Empire.

The Buy British Campaign of 1931

Stephen ConstantineUniversity of Lancaster

Introduction

On 23 November 1931 the Cornish Riviera Express, headed by a GWR steam locomotive, pulled out of Paddington Station, the engine and carriages liberally bedecked with posters bearing the slogan 'Buy British'. Stations en route to the West Country were decorated, and gifts of Empire produce were carried for presentation to the mayors of Exeter and Plymouth[1]. The same month, visitors to Trafalgar Square at night were confronted by the message 'Buy British' spelt out in 15-feet high letters by 1,300 electric light bulbs...

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