Chapter 0639: The Prime Minister's Resignation

The cabinet meeting had concluded, and Churchill's proposal had been approved. Though many still believed that the plan he presented would be extraordinarily difficult to execute, in the absence of a better alternative, preparing according to Churchill's recommendations seemed the most prudent course of action. More importantly, there was still a flicker of hope among them, a hope that their military might withstand the German onslaught. If that proved true, it would be the most beneficial outcome for both the British Empire and its ministers.

Even in the worst-case scenario, they could escape Britain and seek refuge in the colonies. As Churchill had said, the British Empire possessed vast overseas territories, and even if Britain itself fell, they could retreat to these colonies to continue the struggle. Thus, even if defeating Germany proved impossible, enduring until the very end remained a viable option.

So, after the meeting adjourned, Churchill was entrusted with another responsibility. Although he was the First Lord of the Admiralty, Prime Minister Asquith appointed him with full authority over the defense of the homeland. Even the Secretary of State for War, Richard Haldane, appeared to have no objections.

As the others departed, only Chancellor of the Exchequer Lloyd George remained behind.

"George, the British Empire has reached its final hour," Asquith said, his voice laden with sorrow. "Though Churchill remains steadfast, we both know the Empire has already suffered catastrophic defeat in this war. If we abandon the homeland and retreat to the colonies, we may persist, but it will be a hollow victory."

"Indeed, Prime Minister," Lloyd George replied. "However, allowing Churchill to try is not without merit. As he said, it couldn't possibly worsen than it is now. Worst case, we can still escape to the colonies."

Asquith nodded gravely. "George, I intend to resign from my position as Prime Minister."

The sudden declaration stunned Lloyd George. While Asquith had long harbored the desire to step down, particularly as the British forces continued to suffer defeat on the battlefield, his resignation now seemed inevitable. In truth, he wished to shirk the responsibility of failure. Such actions were undoubtedly ignoble, yet anyone could understand his position. In all likelihood, any other man in his shoes would have acted no differently, and few could have endured as long as he had.

At sixty-three, Asquith appeared older than his years. While the powers of the office of Prime Minister were considerable, so too were the burdens, and since the war's outbreak, Asquith had been consumed by the demands of leadership, sleeping but a few hours each night. Under such strain, even the strongest constitution would eventually give way.

Moreover, with the British Empire on the brink of collapse, Asquith had little inclination to persist any longer.

"Prime Minister, the Empire still needs your leadership! How could you consider such a course?" Lloyd George implored.

Had Lloyd George been allowed to decide, he would have vehemently opposed Asquith's resignation. The reason was simple: as Chancellor of the Exchequer, he held the position of deputy Prime Minister. If Asquith were to step down, it was likely that he would be expected to succeed him. While he might have welcomed such a prospect at another time, now, under these dire circumstances, he would not take on such a poisoned chalice. To assume the office of Prime Minister now was to become a scapegoat for the impending disaster, and Lloyd George, no fool, would not fall into such a trap.

"George, my health has deteriorated beyond measure. I can no longer fulfill the duties of Prime Minister. I must resign," Asquith declared firmly. His mind was made up; this was the escape he had long considered.

Once he relinquished the office, the burden would be passed to another. Perhaps he could even leave Britain entirely, fleeing to Canada or even the United States, thereby avoiding the ravages of war. If the Germans landed on British soil, who could say whether they would survive the conflict? In war, life was fragile, and anyone, from the Prime Minister to the common citizen, might perish.

Lloyd George opened his mouth to protest but, seeing the unwavering resolve on Asquith's face, realized further argument would be futile. Asquith had made his decision.

"Prime Minister, who will succeed you?" Lloyd George asked, resigned to the inevitable.

If Asquith's resignation could not be undone, then Lloyd George knew that he must refuse the position of Prime Minister at all costs. His desire was to retain power, not to inherit a sinking ship. He would not bear the weight of the Empire's future on his shoulders.

"George, as per tradition, in the event that I do not complete my term, the office of Prime Minister is yours to assume," Asquith said.

"No, absolutely not," Lloyd George responded. "Prime Minister, I lack the ability to lead the British Empire, particularly in these circumstances. If you choose to resign, I cannot prevent it, but I also have the right to refuse the office. If you insist, I shall submit my own resignation!" Lloyd George, his patience spent, sprang up from his seat.

Lloyd George's stance was resolute. He would not allow himself to become a scapegoat. If Asquith sought to abandon his post, so too would he refuse to take on such a poisoned responsibility.

Asquith's expression darkened. He knew that if he were to resign, a successor must be found. Otherwise, the King would never accept his resignation.

"George, this is your duty. As the deputy Prime Minister, you are the most suitable candidate to succeed me," Asquith stated.

"Prime Minister, I'm afraid I cannot accept such a heavy responsibility. I do not have the capacity to lead in these dire circumstances," Lloyd George replied, unwavering.