Without withholding from these papers the support they may ask for, and in addition to the occasional use of the same for more important publications, it is surely also advisable to seek to make the small press – possibly also the leftist press or marginal publications – more interested in exerting an influence on receptive newspaper readers who eagerly read their provincial papers. So far, we hardly have any experience in this direction. At most, it should be noted that all requests of this sort sent to the News Office by provincial papers were promised fulfilment; for the most part any involvement occurred only once and when it was necessary to respond to a direct request.
Perhaps one of the next tasks could be organizing this kind of influence on the press. Preacher Hülle might be considered as an advisor to this organization. The danger here is that, as with all correspondences (naval correspondences), a shortage of material could easily occur, which cannot be averted with the powers of the News Office. The permanent employment of a skilled journalist could remedy this situation.
It is also possible that a greater involvement of naval officers with a talent for writing could be effective. In this case, one might have to consider easing relevant service regulations. The larger papers that are not published in Berlin will still have to be kept up to date from time to time with the help of correspondents known to the News Office and with journalist-assistants. In technical terms, it is important for all such articles be brief (1 1/2 columns) and written in a captivating style. More attention than before should be paid to illustrated journals. Many papers are not yet aware of how willing the News Office is to provide them with illustrations or text upon request. Their influence is very substantial, and an effort must be made to make contact with them, and to get them permanently involved through the monetary or other benefits that will accrue to them from these relationships. In this direction, as well, the News Office faces an expansion of its tasks. The desired purpose can be accomplished with the help of topical photographs that are otherwise difficult to procure for these publications, and by making them available free of charge.
To further increase interest in the navy and to spread information, exhibits, slide shows, joint excursions, and lectures must be supported with the utmost willingness.
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