§ MR. A. CHAMBERLAIN (Worcestershire, E.)In the absence of the hon. Member for the Wellington Division of 1718 Shropshire, I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War when he hopes to begin the distribution of the new rifle to the Militia and Volunteer Forces, in place of the obsolete weapons now in use?
CAMPBELL-BANNERMANIt is impossible to say at the present moment when the distribution of the new rifle will be made. It is necessary, first, to put it in the hands of the Army, and to create a sufficient reserve for the Army. I must take exception to the word "obsolete" being used in regard to the Martini-Henry. Though its place is to be taken by a new weapon, it is not obsolete.