§ CAPTAIN SELWYN (Cambridge, Wisbeach)asked the Secretary of State for War whether the estimated cost of converting the Martini-Henry into a repeating rifle is about 8s. at the Government Factory and 12s. 6d. by contract; and, whether, in view of the great economy which Major Harston's invention might produce, and in order to secure fair play to inventors, he will lay upon the Table of the House the Report of the Small Arms Committee on this invention?
§ * THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. E. STANHOPE, Lincolnshire, Horncastle)The conversion of the Martini into a repeating rifle could be made in the Government factory at a cost of 16s. per arm. But it is represented to me that this invention, while remarkable for its ingenuity, is altogether unfit for service. The Reports of the Small Arms Committee are confidential documents, which, I am afraid, I cannot undertake to produce.
§ CAPTAIN SELWYNIs the right hon. Gentleman able to say when this unfortunate officer is likely to receive payment for his invention?
§ * MR. E. STANHOPEThe question of the payment of Major Harston is under consideration.
§ MR. HANBURY (Preston)Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to fulfil the promise given to me by the Financial Secretary, that Members of this House should see the Report of the Small Arms Committee to the War Office?
§ * MR. E. STANHOPEI do not understand that my hon. Friend made such a promise. I certainly cannot undertake to produce a confidential document.