Why MI6 chief is C and uses green ink | Brief letters

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"Clarification on the Title 'C' for MI6 Chief Originates from Historical Tradition"

Why MI6 chief is C and uses green ink | Brief letters analysis cover image The Guardian 8.1
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jun/19/why-mi6-chief-is-c-and-uses-green-ink
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TruthLens AI Summary

The recent letter discussing the nomenclature of the head of MI6 clarifies an important detail regarding the title 'C'. Contrary to a report that suggested 'C' is an abbreviation for 'chief', the title originates from Sir Mansfield Cumming, the first head of MI6, who famously signed his correspondence with just the letter 'C' in green ink. This practice has become a longstanding tradition, where the current head of MI6 continues to use green ink as a nod to Cumming's legacy. Such details highlight the significance of historical practices within institutions like MI6, which shape the identities and roles of their leaders over time.

In addition to this informative correction about MI6, the letters section of the publication features a variety of personal anecdotes and reflections from readers. One letter humorously recounts a gift of a Donald Trump-themed lavatory brush, emphasizing the satisfaction derived from using it in a light-hearted way. Other contributions include playful observations about family dynamics, such as a father’s half-shaved moustache to gauge his children's attention, and musings on the nature of gift-giving, drawing a linguistic connection to the German word for poison. These diverse submissions showcase the engaging and often humorous exchanges among readers, reflecting their daily lives and opinions on various topics discussed in the media.

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Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jun/19/why-mi6-chief-is-c-and-uses-green-ink

Your report (Blaise Metreweli named as first woman to lead UK intelligence service MI6, 15 June) said “the head of MI6 is known internally as C – short for chief”. C is not short for chief. The first head of MI6 was Sir Mansfield Cumming, who always signed his letters “C” in green ink. It has been a tradition since to call the head of service C and for them to use green ink.Roger HollesLeeds

One Christmas our son bought my husband a Donald Trump lavatory brush. Although it’s not official merchandise (Why is there a Maga-branded Instant Pot? Because capitalism never sleeps, 18 June), over the years it has given us immense satisfaction plunging the orange head into the depths in order to Make the Bowl Great Again.Brenda EdwardsGrange-over-Sands, Cumbria

When our children were young and their dad had decided to shave off his moustache (Adrian Chiles, 18 June), he’d shave off half and see how long it took them to notice.Helen EvansRuthin, Denbighshire

Gifting gifts (Letters, 16 June) becomes less of a problem and more worthy of thought if you recall thatGiftis the German word for poison.Brian SmithBerlin, Germany

I’ve always been given presents.Maxine GodaLiverpool

“Swap in/swap out” rather than “swap”. “Hacks” in place of “tips”. And radio interviewees starting with: “Thank you for having me.”Janet FraserTwickenham, London

Have an opinion on anything you’ve read in the Guardian today? Pleaseemailus your letter and it will be considered for publication in ourletterssection.

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Source: The Guardian