Atlantic Fleet learns through newspapers

The Atlantic Fleet reached Invergordon around 11 September and learned of the pay cuts through newspapers before receiving a clear official explanation. Some press reports suggested that everyone faced a 25 percent cut, and officers received confirmation only on 12 September. The Admiralty had concentrated on notifying distant stations and failed to explain the policy promptly to the fleet at home. Captain Sir Aubrey Baldwin Wake of Warspite contained the first shore disturbances with extra patrols, early closure of the canteen, and jokes that dispersed speeches. Rear Admiral Wilfrid Tomkinson held temporary fleet command because Admiral Sir Michael Hodges was in hospital. His dinner for commanders and flag officers on 14 September allowed frank discussion once normal distinctions of rank were relaxed. Meanwhile, protesting sailors heard a patrol officer out respectfully before continuing their speeches and songs, evidence that their anger over pay had not ended their willingness to listen to officers.