2 FEBRUARY 1918, Page 2

Ho did not say that the Prime Minister himself had

confidence in the military leaders. This is the point which must now be cleared up. We agree that in ordinary circumstances it is quite unnecessary for the Prime Minister continually to assert his belief in the efficiency of the leading soldiers. His confidence may fairly be assumed, so long as he retains them. But we are sure that Mr. Lloyd George, with his quick eye for a political situation, will recognize that, since suspicion and doubt and misgiving have undoubtedly been aroused, these things ought to be dispelled. If they are not, evil results are certain to follow.