The ministers of the British Cabinet, including Prime Minister Asquith, regarded Churchill with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension, pondering how he intended to swiftly restore the Royal Navy's might. After all, constructing a battleship from inception to commission typically required nearly two years. Even with relentless efforts, a year and a half was inevitable. Germany, clearly, would not afford them such a grace period.
Understanding their concerns, Churchill continued to elucidate his strategy. He recognized that for his plan to succeed, unanimous approval from the Cabinet was paramount; otherwise, it would surely falter.
"Gentlemen, the Royal Navy currently possesses only seven battleships and one battlecruiser. Engaging the Germans in a decisive conflict under such circumstances is utterly unrealistic. However, we can enhance the Royal Navy's strength through alternative means, such as purchasing warships from other nations," Churchill declared.
"Purchase warships? How is that feasible?" the ministers exclaimed in disbelief.
It was well-known that in the days of British maritime dominance, other nations had approached Britain to acquire warships; Britain had never sought to purchase them from others. Furthermore, in the current climate, which nation could supply them with a significant number of vessels capable of competing with the German fleet?
"From whom might we procure these warships, Lord Churchill?" inquired Sir Edward Grey.
"America! Currently, only America possesses sufficient warships available for sale to us," Churchill replied.
"The Americans? While their shipbuilding industry is advanced, if they were to supply us with warships, it would be akin to drawing water from a distant well!" Richard Haldane protested.
Churchill nodded, acknowledging the truth of the concern. "Indeed, placing orders with the Americans now would be too late. Therefore, it is imperative that we acquire their active-duty vessels. If we could procure all twelve of their battleships currently in service, it would restore more than half of the Royal Navy's capabilities."
"But how could they possibly sell us their active-duty battleships? If they were to do so, what would become of their own maritime defenses?" one minister raised a point of contention.
"The Atlantic provides a formidable barrier, ensuring the safety of the American homeland. Moreover, according to our intelligence, since the onset of hostilities, the Americans have begun constructing a series of new warships. Selling us their older vessels would not only recoup funds but also enable them to finance the production of newer battleships. This arrangement would be advantageous for them. As a neutral nation, the United States remains unengaged in the war. Even if the Germans are irked by this, they have no means to retaliate against America across the Atlantic. Setting aside the question of whether the Germans possess the capability, such an endeavor would ultimately prove impractical and costly. Even should they emerge victorious in this conflict, they would be thoroughly exhausted and unable to contend with the Americans thereafter. Without any concerns on their borders, it is entirely plausible that the Americans would sell us those warships," Churchill argued.
"Furthermore, the Americans have long harbored ambitions of their own. Should we continue to engage the Germans in warfare, it would undoubtedly serve their interests. If the Germans were to easily achieve victory, their power would swell to a level that would alarm the Americans. At that point, American dominance in the Americas would become untenable. Thus, in pursuit of their own interests, it is likely that the Americans would assist us in overcoming this dire challenge," Churchill continued.
"Prime Minister, this is highly plausible. Before the outbreak of war, the Germans and Americans were already in contention over South America, a conflict that soured relations between them. The Americans have always regarded South America as their backyard, refusing to allow any other nation to intrude. The Germans, seeking additional markets and sources of raw materials, have created irreconcilable tensions. With an eye toward the future, it is indeed very likely that the Americans would choose to aid us," stated Colonial Secretary Lewis Vernon Harcourt.
"If that is the case, let us reach out to the Americans and request they sell us those warships!" Asquith declared. As long as there was a glimmer of hope in defeating the Germans, they would not hesitate to seize the opportunity.
"Indeed, Prime Minister," Churchill replied, excitement flickering in his eyes. He was not one to surrender easily, and even in the face of adversity, he remained resolute in his determination to triumph over Germany.
"Prime Minister, we must consider that the Americans are not without their own interests. In our current predicament, they will undoubtedly seize the opportunity to negotiate. I worry that they may impose conditions that we cannot accept. Additionally, our finances may not allow for such extensive expenditures on warships," Lloyd George cautioned.
The ministers nodded in agreement, sharing the same skepticism toward the Americans. Even though American industrial output had surged to the forefront globally, they were often regarded merely as nouveau riche. Moreover, Britain had historically resisted allowing a nation founded by former criminals to surpass them, and had consistently sought to undermine American endeavors. Were it not for Germany's rise, Britain would still be exerting pressure on the United States.
It was clear that the American government would not forsake this opportunity. After all, they were the only nation capable of providing Britain with these warships. They would undoubtedly extract a steep price from Britain, which was almost guaranteed.
"If we can vanquish the Germans, then any price paid will be worth it. Should funds prove insufficient, we could even consider relinquishing some less critical colonies to the Americans in exchange for these warships," Churchill asserted resolutely.
"Transfer colonies to the Americans? That is out of the question! Those colonies form the foundation of the British Empire!" Colonial Secretary Harcourt immediately opposed the notion. He was in favor of purchasing American warships but vehemently opposed exchanging colonies.
"We would merely be trading less significant colonies for the warships. The most valuable colonies are not up for negotiation. Moreover, if we fail to win this war, we stand to lose those colonies regardless," Churchill argued.
Asquith hesitated for a moment, then finally nodded. "Defeating the Germans is paramount; everything else can be set aside for now!"