§ MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War whether he has, since the 18th May last, ascertained what modifications have been introduced in the bolt and bolt-head, and also in the magazine, carrier or hopper, of the Lee-Metford magazine rifle, Mark I. pattern; if so, will he state in detail what these modifications are, or produce these parts of the rifle for the inspection of hon. Members of the House who have grave doubts as to the efficiency of Mark I. pattern, which is now in the hands of the troops?
§ MR. WOODALLAs the hon. Member is aware, the Mark I. rifle was modified in certain details, and all the arms of that improved pattern now in the hands of the troops are known as Mark I. Star. The modifications which resulted in the Mark II. model are chiefly in the bolt, spring, magazine, screws, and bolt-head. They are, however, of a character which it would be difficult to make intelligible in answer to a question in the House of Commons; but if the hon. Member for Ross and Cromarty, or any other hon. Member desirous of information, will visit the War Office, the construction of the rifle and the various improvements which have been effected in it shall be explained by competent officers.