§ 39. Mr. GRETTONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if the Sea Lords of the Admiralty at sea in command of fleets or squadrons divest themselves of their functions and authority as members of the Board of Admiralty; and if the Board ceases to act during the dispersal of its members for the purposes of the naval manoœuvres?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLDuring such temporary service at sea the Sea Lords are treated as if they were absent on leave or on special duty, and though their administrative functions are suspended for the time being they still remain members of the Board. Their duties during their absence are performed by their colleagues. The Board of Admiralty does not cease to act because one or more of its members are absent at any time, the functions of the Board being capable of exercise under the Letters Patent by any two or more members,
§ 40. Mr. GRETTONasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he proposes to attend the naval man[...]euvres this year; and if he will take any part other than that of spectator and observer, or does he propose to act as director or in any other way exercise command over the Fleets during manœeuvres?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI propose, if the House will give me leave, to be present for a few days during the active period of the manœuvres—of course, as a spectator and observer.