HC Deb 29 November 1916 vol 88 c309
8. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether, in order to put an end to rumours of impending changes, he will state what changes are to be made at the Board of Admiralty and in existing commands?

The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Mr. Balfour)

With the King's approval, Admiral Sir Henry Jackson has been appointed Admiral President of the Royal Naval College, Greenwich.

Admiral Sir John Jellicoe becomes First Sea Lord, and Admiral Sir David Beatty has assumed command of the Grand Fleet.

The decisions involving these appointments were taken some time ago; but, for military reasons which my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate, the announcement has been delayed.

Mr. ASHLEY

Are there any other changes in the Board of Admiralty?

Mr. BALFOUR

There certainly will be, of course, consequential on these, but I thought that what the House desired to have were these principal changes.

Commander BELLA IRS

Have any other changes in the higher commands besides these been made?

Mr. BALFOUR

Yes, there are changes in the higher commands. They will be announced in the ordinary course. I thought that my hon. and gallant Friend was chiefly interested in the more important alterations recently effected.

Mr. WATT

Is it the intention of the right hon. Gentleman to appoint an air lord to the Board?