Churchill's prime ministerial inauguration was a modest affair. On the very day King George V approved Asquith's resignation, Asquith vacated the prime minister's residence, and Churchill assumed his new duties.
All cabinet members retained their posts, with Churchill assuming both the roles of Prime Minister and First Lord of the Admiralty. His primary focus was on the defense of Britain itself. His first directive was to further expand and drill the army, preparing for combat. Defensive positions were established in major cities and at key transportation hubs, and coastal fortifications were set up where German forces might attempt a landing, all to brace for the imminent conflict.
Churchill also sought support from the Royal Family, visiting Buckingham Palace that evening to share his vision with King George V.
"Your Majesty, the current situation is indeed dire for the British Empire. Though the Royal Navy fought with all its might, it was ultimately defeated by the Germans. We can no longer prevent them from dominating the seas. Inevitably, the Germans will leverage their control of the oceans to mount an assault on British soil," Churchill explained.
King George nodded, though he still found the Royal Navy's crushing defeat hard to accept. For centuries, Britain's Royal Navy had been unmatched, with the nation investing vast resources to ensure its supremacy. As an island empire, Britain's survival depended on the might of the Royal Navy. And yet, even under such favorable conditions, they had suffered a catastrophic loss.
"Prime Minister, I cannot fathom how the Royal Navy could fail so utterly," George V inquired.
Churchill anticipated this question and was prepared with an answer.
"Your Majesty, the root cause lies in the flaws of our shipbuilding doctrine. The British Empire, with its extensive and scattered colonies, required warships with high endurance, speed, and firepower to protect them. Our battleship designs have always prioritized speed and firepower, sacrificing armor. The Germans, however, emphasized durability, designing their ships for survivability in battle. This made their vessels far more resilient under fire, enabling them to deliver prolonged power. In battle, while our ships were crippled by enemy fire, the German ships often sustained only minor damage. This asymmetry, Your Majesty, gave them a substantial advantage."
"Damn it! How could such an oversight have occurred? Was there not ample consideration given during the design phase?" George V fumed, aware that this failure had sealed the empire's fate. Without it, Britain would still be the world's foremost power, unyielding in the face of defeat.
After venting his anger, George V calmed, knowing it was too late to reverse the course of history. No analysis of past missteps could recover the warships now lost beneath the sea.
"Additionally, the Germans have outpaced us in adopting new technologies and tactics. Their aircraft can now take off from warships, carrying bombs and torpedoes capable of attacking surface ships. In the recent decisive battle, our losses under aerial assault alone numbered over ten battleships. The French and Italians surrendered largely out of fear of these German planes. This was a crucial factor in our defeat," Churchill added.
"It seems we must also urgently develop aircraft. The Empire's scientific prowess is equal to Germany's; with effort, we should be able to catch up," George V replied.
"Indeed, Your Majesty. But our primary challenge is resisting the German advance in the coming war. If we refuse to surrender, they will undoubtedly launch an assault on our homeland. This, however, presents us with an opportunity. Should we manage to repel their attacks and exact a heavy toll, they may reconsider their plans to destroy Britain. Peace at a small price would be our best outcome."
George V nodded. "Prime Minister, I too hope we can withstand the German assault. Proceed as you see fit. I will support you wholeheartedly."
"Thank you, Your Majesty." With the King's backing, Churchill felt bolstered, knowing he now had greater authority and resources at his disposal.
"Prime Minister, do you believe we can hold back the Germans?" George V asked, a trace of apprehension in his voice.
"Your Majesty, repelling the German advance will be extraordinarily difficult. However, fighting on home ground gives us a distinct advantage. With God's favor, victory is not impossible. Rest assured, we shall give our utmost in the battles to come."
George V signaled his approval.
"Your Majesty, we must also prepare for the worst. Should we fail in this fight, I urge you to retreat to Canada, along with the Empire's wealth. From there, we would continue our resistance against Germany. Even if our homeland is overtaken, we shall never bow to German rule. Under your wise leadership, I am confident we will ultimately prevail."
In the event of defeat, a retreat to Canada offered George V a dignified alternative, sparing him the shame of becoming a conquered king.
With this vision, George V was reassured, resolved to lend Churchill his unwavering support in fortifying Britain's defenses.