British Intelligence Services for Ferrol surveillance between 1739 and 1756, Oviedo, IFESXVIII / Ediciones Trea (ACESXVIII, 10), 2022.

Abstract

The records produced by the British intelligence services have been the subject of this study in order to explore how the information about Ferrol was gained and released from 1739 to 1756. These documentary sources were used to uncover the Spanish naval policy in this city. The intelligence services reported directly to different British government offices. They provided accurate, reliable and high quality infomation that was essential to enable informed decision making, safeguard national security and contribute to economic prosperity. Among the authors of these official sources were several secretaries of State, members of the Admiralty and representatives of British embassies and consulates in different European countries.