In the British War Cabinet meeting of 11 April 1917 reported the First Sea Lord admiral Sir J.R. Jellicoe (1) that he sounded out if the French were interested in bombing open towns as a revenge for attacking hospital. Condition was that the Royal Air Service Unit which was now positioned in south France left her material there. The Royal Naval Air Service personnel was needed to fly and maintain seaplanes. Lord Milner (2) discussed already the matter with the Prime Minister resulting in a decision to bomb a German open town and that France agreed to support this action. Jellicoe said that after the bombing leaflets would be dropped explaining that the bombing was caused by German attacks on hospital ships. The War Cabinet agreed with Jellicoes’ further inquiries and asked to inform them about the results.
Notes
1. John Jellicoe, 1st Earl Jellicoe (5 December Southampton, England 1859-Kensington London, England 20 November 1935), served in the Royal Navy between 1872-1919 ending his career in the rank of Admiral of the Fleet, First Sea Lord between 30 November 1916 and 10 January 1918 and commanded the Grand Fleet at the Battle of Jutland in May 1916. Governor-General of New Zealand 27 September 1920-12 December 1924.
2. Alfred Milner, 1st Viscount Milner (Giessen, Grand Duchy of Hesse 23 March 1854-Great Wigsell, England 13 May 1925), Minister out of Portfolio since 9 December 1916. He led on 20 January 1917 the British delegation on a mission to Russia to examine what Russia needed to stand against Austria-Hungary and Germany.
Source
The National Archives, Kew Gardens, England, CAB 23-2-35.
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