HC Deb 30 June 1914 vol 64 c199
40. Mr. F. HALL (Dulwich)

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he has at any time conferred directly or indirectly with Mr. Yexley, the editor of the "Fleet," against whom Captain Kemp has recently obtained heavy damages for libel, with regard to the drawing up of Regulations for the revised pay of seamen?

The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Churchill)

Yes, Sir, I consulted Mr. Yexley and a good many other persons directly and indirectly on the subject of the recent increases in the pay of the Fleet, and received much information that was of value.

Mr. F. HALL

Is Mr. Yexley still confidential adviser to the Admiralty?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I am not aware that he has ever occupied that position.

Mr. F. HALL

Is the House to understand from the right hon. Gentleman's reply that he has paid no attention to the instructions or to the advice that has been tendered by Mr. Yexley?

There being no reply,

Mr. F. HALL

Then the House is to draw its own conclusion.