"War Machine Must Be Overhauled," Says Roger Keyes

Northern Advocate, 18 February 1942, Page 2

"War Machine Must Be Overhauled," Says Roger Keyes

(Rec. 11 a.m.) LONDON, Feb. 17. “The cruel humiliation which the navy has suffered in recent weeks has emphasised the folly and blindness of those who deprived it of a large and highly efficient air service 24 years ago,” said Admiral Sir Roger Keyes, in a speech.

He added: “It is difficult to speak temperately of successive Governments for placing such a handicap on the navy, or of successive Boards of Admiralty who tolerated ill-control of naval air power which should be an integral part of a modern, fleet in the exercise of sea power.”

The only torpedo bombers the navy i possessed were the six-year-old Swordfish biplanes, he said, with a speed, when loaded, of about 100 miles an hour and carrying one small 18-inch torpedo incapable of inflicting vital damage on a modern capital ship unless it was fortunate to hit the propeller, which happened in the case of the Bismarck which was not escorted by fighters. '

Vigorous Policy Needed

“One thing is absolutely certain,” he continued, “that the war machine of this country will have to be thoroughly overhauled, otherwise victory will be postponed and the people will pay with their lives while awaiting victory. It is unfair to the. youth of this country that they are not provided with the best vessels and the best means of making war and are not given a vigor- ■ ous offensive war policy. When these i things come, victory will not be long delayed.” j He said that he refrained from com'ment on the “deplorable proceedings off Singapore and in our narrow seas,” because he understood an inquiry was being held.