WHAT NEXT?

Evening Post, Volume CV, Issue 83, 9 April 1928, Page 9

WHAT NEXT?

NAVY TRIAL AND AFTEB ADMIKALTY'S MOVE INTEREST IN SITUATION United Press Association—By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Australian Frees Association. (Received 9th April, 10 a.m.) LONDON, Bth April. * It is understood that the Admiralty intends carefully to consider the documents relating to the" Royal Oak courtmartial, to determine whether they disclose anything o justify the remissioa of the sentences imposed on Captain Dewar and Commander Daniel. The "Sunday Express" points out that both have brilliant records in, gunnery, and the authorities have a natural reluctance to lose their services in view of the vital importance of gunnery and the heavy cost of training experts. In view of the misconception regai^jf ing Admiral Collard, the "Morning Post's" naval correspondent points out that the Admiral has received the heaviest punishment possible. Following the letters from Captain Dewar and Commander Daniel, Sir Roger Keyea ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate. Upon considering the report of this Court Admiral Keyes came to the conclusion that the conduct of all threo officers was open to question. Ho therefore relieved them of tlfeir respective duties. The Admiralty subsequently confirmed this action. Admiral Collard was satisfied that he had acted with lack of discretion and judgment, and accepted the ruling of the Commander-in-Chief, hauled down his flag, and declined to hoist it temporarily on another ship pending the Admiralty confirmation. To him this was a. bitter blow. Unfortunately his action was not allowed to have the result ho desired. Captain Dewar. and Commander Daniel did not accept the judgment of Admiral Keyes, and, arriving in England, asked for reinstatement on = their ship or a court-martial. The Admiralty granted a court-martial, the result of which is known. It is stated from Gibraltar that Ad. miral Collard is still on full pay. Captain Dewar and Commander Daniel ar» going home at their own expense. Captair. Dewar's half-pay is about £680, and Commander Daniel's £400.