History of the United Kingdom during the First World War and the balance of power. The British people were disappointed that there was no quick victory in the war. They long had taken great pride and expense in the Royal Navy, but now there was little to cheer about. The Battle of Jutland in May 1916, was the first and only time the German fleet challenged control of the North Sea, but it was overmatched and was reassigned mostly to helping the more important u-boats. Since the Liberals ran the war without consulting the Unionists (Conservatives) there were heavy partisan attacks. However even Liberal commentators were dismayed by the lack
1st Battle Squadron Following the Battle of Jutland, the 1st Battle Squadron was reorganized, with "Colossus", "Hercules", "St. Vincent", "Collingwood" and "Neptune" all transferred to the 4th Battle Squadron. In January 1917, the squadron was constituted as follows: By 1918, "Agincourt" had been transferred to the 2nd Battle Squadron, and "Resolution", "Ramillies" and "Iron Duke" had joined the squadron on completion. For many years the squadron served in the Mediterranean as the main British battle force there. On 3 September 1939 the 1st Battle Squadron, serving in the Mediterranean Fleet, consisted of "Barham", "Warspite" and "Malaya", with headquarters at Alexandria, Egypt, under the