§ 51. Mr. G. FABERasked the Prime Minister if he will now state whether Lord Jellicoe is to remain in retirement; and whether it is intended to use Lord Jellicoe's ability and experience in some manner so that they are of the greatest advantage to the State?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWNo definite pronouncement can be made at present, but, as officially stated in the Admiralty announcement of 27th December last, it is hoped to make use of this distinguished officer's services and experience in another important appointment.
§ Mr. FABERWill the right hon. Gentleman tell us this—in view of the very considerable public anxiety on the matter—why was Lord Jellicoe retired?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWIt is quite obvious that I cannot answer a question of that kind.
§ Mr. FABERCan the right hon. Gentleman, at any rate, say this: whether it was in consequence of any Press agitation, and, if so. whether he—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat does not arise out of the question on the Paper.
§ Mr. HOGGEWill the right hon. Gentleman lay on the Table the correspondence between Lord Jellicoe and the First Lord of the Admiralty?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI should think that a very unusual and a very improper procedure. Such decisions as are taken, whatever their merits, must be taken by the Government of the day.