First Sea Lord

The First Sea Lord is the senior admiral and professional head of the British Royal Navy. He also holds the title of Chief of the Naval Staff and is known by the abbreviations 1SL/CNS.

History

Prior to 1809 naval officers had occasionally served as First Lord of the Admiralty, or president of the Board of Admiralty. However, after this time the office was invariably held by a civilian politician.

Related Topics:
1809 - First Lord of the Admiralty - Board of Admiralty

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The title of First Sea Lord was first given to the senior naval officer on the Board of Admiralty in 1828. The title was retained when the Board of Admiralty was abolished in 1964 and its functions integrated into the Ministry of Defence.

Related Topics:
1828 - 1964 - Ministry of Defence

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Between 1795 and 1827 the head of the Royal Navy was known as the Admiral of the Fleet. This office later became a rank.

Related Topics:
1795 - 1827

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• Richard Howe, 1st Earl Howe 1795–1799
• Sir Peter Parker 1799–1811
• Prince William, Duke of Clarence 1811–1827