HC Deb 07 April 1881 vol 260 c867
LORD EUSTACE CECIL

asked the Secretary of State for War, Whether it is true that, in consequence of a dispute which has arisen as to the rights of the Crown to a portion of the foreshore at Shoeburyness, the new breech-loading 43-ton gun cannot be tested; and, if so, what steps he proposes to take to facilitate the conclusion of these trials, so as to hasten the adoption and manufacture of the new ordnance?

MR. CHILDERS

Sir, in reply to my noble Friend, I have to state that a legal question has arisen as to a portion of the foreshore near Shoeburyness; but that I do not think that much delay will result. The case being with our Legal Advisers, I cannot say more at this moment.