§ MR. YERBURGH (Chester)To ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether there is any obligation upon admirals 726 commanding squadrons to conduct manoeuvres which provide sufficient training for the handling of fleets in war; and, if not, whether such manoeuvres as will contribute to the fighting efficiency of the Fleet will be made compulsory and reports sent to the Admiralty upon the capacity or otherwise of the officers engaged in them.
(Answered by Mr Pretyman.) The orders issued to admirals carry the obligation named in the Question. It is well understood by all admirals in command that their first and principal duty is to make their squadrons efficient for war, and that it is for this purpose that they are appointed.