Aerial film of the city, taken after the Suez operation, is produced as evidence to refute Egyptian "allegations that Port Said is a scene of chaos and devastation."

The film consists mainly of general panoramas (the emptiness of the streets, it is suggested, proves the film was taken after the occupation); attention is drawn to undamaged utilities (waterworks; harbour, where it is claimed only damage is caused by Egyptian blockships). "In the light of these pictures, this sort of propaganda is seen for what it is worth." The only damage shown is a burnt-down "area of flimsy dwellings": the clearly defined area indicates the absence of any indiscriminate action, "the damage is negligible in relation to the town as a whole." "The fact is, Port Said was not a battle ground, nor was it ever intended to be."

Notes

Film: apparently an immediate reaction to Egyptian claims of the type to be found in THE ANGLO-FRENCH AGGRESSION (COI 582); a more considered (or at least longer) reply is SUEZ IN PERSPECTIVE (COI 340). Offcuts from the British films - including some footage of damage to civilian areas carefully left out of these "facts" - are held as SUEZ MATERIAL (COI 449).

Documentation/associated material: COI file - shotlist, commentary, production details