The counterfactual largely retains the Second and Third Sea Lords' existing departments. It adds a third political representative, an additional civil lord, to strengthen the Navy's position in the House of Commons and its communication with ministers. The First Lord remains president of the board, while the First Sea Lord gains a general staff responsible for strategy, defence, and mobilization. The civil lord's responsibilities for civilian holdings fit alongside the Second Sea Lord's work. An additional civil lord oversees contracts and commitments beside the Third Sea Lord's technology, construction, maintenance, and refit responsibilities.
Chapter · 28:37-30:42
A counterfactual Admiralty Board for 1905
The proposed board gives the First Sea Lord a coordinating staff and pairs naval officers with ministers responsible for explaining and overseeing their work.