Amongst the early decisions taken by Churchill when he became Prime Minister was the setting up of the new Ministry of Aircraft Production. The RAF had started the war with two excellent fighters, the Hurricane and the Spitfire. The question was, however, whether the factories would be able to turn out sufficient of these aircraft to fill the gaps in the squadrons which would soon result from the German onslaught. Hence, the formation of the new Ministry.

Even more important, was the appointment of the new Minister. The new man was Lord Beaverbrook, newspaper proprietor and a great old chum of Churchill himself. Beaverbrook was an absolute firebrand and something of a bully. He had no respect for the average civil servant, or, indeed, managing director. He just pursued his task with demonic energy ensuring that, as the Battle developed, production of new aircraft spiralled upwards.  The Squadrons were never to be short of planes. Moreover, Beaverbrook soon formed a close and very friendly relationship with Dowding himself. He would ring Dowding every evening to discuss the latter’s requirements. Churchill had made an inspired choice.