Why the Navy valued political balance

Was the Royal Navy especially close to the Conservative Party?

No. Fisher was close to the Liberals, and the Navy preferred political balance among senior officers so it could make its case across party lines.

Fisher's Liberal connections contrast with Beresford's Conservative ties. Filling too many senior posts with officers from one political side restricted the Navy's freedom to make its case. A balance of connections helped it argue for naval interests across party lines.