§ MAJOR ARBUTHNOTasked the Surveyor General of Ordnance, Whether it is true that it is intended to turn down or remove the exterior iron from the 6½-ton wrought-iron Guns now in service, in order to reduce their weight to 4½ tons; if so, whether the Guns so altered will fit their present wrought-iron Carriages, or whether the change will necessitate the manufacture of new wrought-iron Carriages; what number of 6½-tons have been manufactured, and what is the cost of each, with its wrought-iron Carriage and slide complete; and, whether, if already commenced, there is any objection to such conversion being suspended, to admit of further consideration as to its desirability?
§ SIR HENRY STORKSSir, one 6½-ton gun has been turned down for the purpose of experiment, and, if successful, orders will probably be given for about 30 more. The guns, so altered, will not fit their present carriages and slides, and will therefore require new ones. These guns are for sea service; 571 6½-ton guns have been manufactured. The cost of each, with its wrought-iron carriage and slide complete, is £775. So soon as the present trial of the experimental gun is complete, the subject will be further considered. There are many points connected with the subject of a purely professional and departmental character, with which I am unwilling to trouble the House, though I shall be happy to communicate them to the hon. and gallant Member personally.