A modern DARPA-style agency depends on a network of universities and research institutes that does not fit the setting of Edwardian Britain. The proposed alternative combines an Admiralty staff reform with discretionary funds for the Sea Lords. The First Sea Lord would gain support for operations and strategy, while the Second and Third Sea Lords could sponsor work within their existing responsibilities. A staff could retain experience between appointments and moderate the effects of sharply different personalities. Its members would also be influenced by a long-serving First Sea Lord, carrying some of that influence into the next administration. The research programme therefore depends on changes to authority and continuity as well as additional money.
Chapter · 1:03:50-1:24:01
A workable 1900 Admiralty research system
The scenario expands Third Sea Lord funds and gives the First Sea Lord a staff able to preserve continuity between appointments.