THE NEW FIRST SEA LORD

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXII, Issue 7027, 15 January 1910, Page 9

THE NEW FIRST SEA LORD

FKOSI OUB SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT. LONDON', December 3. The appointment"' of Sir Arthur AVi!« son to succeed to the office of First Sea Lord, shortly to be vacated by Sir John Fisher, has been made with the complete concurrence of the Unionist loaders. They, as well as the Government, regard him, by reason of his vast experience, 'great ability, and unrivalled standing in the fleet as tho best possible choice as First Sea Lord. The news of Sir Arthur Wilson's acceptance of a seat on the Admiralty Board as its senior member has given the greatest satisfaction in tho Navy. As one man officers acclaim the selection, and recognise the splendid spirit which lias prompted this Admiral to forego his leisure in order to fill such au appointment at such a moment. Sir Arthur Wilson will be sixty-eight years of age_ on March 4th. lie had devoted his liTe with unique singleness of purpose lo Ills ! profession down to Maircn, 19U7, when ho relinquished the command of tho (old) Channel Fleet. lie thev freely stated that he had no intention of accepting a fresh appointment, and, ifrdeetT, refused one most responsible post oh the plea that he regarded his na.val career as ended. It is generally understood that he has now consented, to be. come First Sea Lord with considerable reluctance, and only because he recognises that tie occasion is one when personal views must be subservient to tho interests of the Navy. Sir Arthur Wilson, it may be added, is, a progressive officer, and there will be no break in the continuity of naval policy. He has, even during the years when he has been on half-pay, kept in close touch with naval affairs, particularly since he became an additional member of the Committee of Imperial Defence, on the nomination of the present Prime Minister. Now: he, and Sir John Fisher are about to change places, and the latter officer, as a, peer, will st'TT give the 'committee the advantage of his experience and advice. Nothing coul3 indicate better the opinion which the Cabinet have formed of the ne\f peer's arduous labours at tie .Admiralty.