The Blimpish generals, conservatives of a dead military epoch simply would not be budged. Britain had to prepare for war simultaneously in Europe against the Germans and all across its empire against potential enemies like Italy, Japan and Indian or Palestinian nationalists. Tanks might work against the Germans, but they'd be acquired at the expense of the tools needed to fight the small wars around the fringes of the empire. That was no excuse for lethargy yet that is precisely what flourishes in the world of the author authoritarian where vigorous debate and reform are interpreted as a frontry.