What was one reason the Royal Navy took sailors from the merchant navy during wartime?

The primary reason the Royal Navy took sailors from the merchant navy during wartime was to increase naval strength. During conflicts, particularly in the context of historical naval warfare, manning ships with skilled sailors was crucial for maintaining a powerful and effective naval force. Merchant sailors had valuable experience in navigation, ship handling, and maritime operations, making them an essential resource for bolstering the naval fleet.

This practice ensured that the Royal Navy could effectively respond to threats and engage in military operations, thereby enhancing its overall combat readiness. While improving trade opportunities, controlling maritime industries, or ensuring compliance from foreign nations may have been factors of interest during wartime, the immediate need was to augment naval capabilities with experienced personnel. This act of conscripting sailors reflected the desperate measures taken during periods of conflict where manpower shortages were prevalent in the Royal Navy.