MR. BAZLEY-WHITE (Gravesend)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the men in charge of the 40-pounder gun, which recently burst at Sheerness, are prepared to state that a shot used at drill was not left in the bore, and that a proper examination took place before loading?
§ * THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. E. STANHOPE,) Lincolnshire, HorneastleThe explanation of this unfortunate occurrence given by me the other day was based upon the Report of a Board of Officers, who carefully inquired into all the circumstances upon the spot. I have no doubt of its correctness, but I have also no doubt that the men to whom my hon. Friend alludes are firmly convinced of the accuracy of their own account of this transaction. Regulations have been issued which will, I hope, prevent any possibility of the recurrence of such an event.