§ COLONEL DENNY (Kilmarnock Burghs)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War when it is anticipated that the converted rifle will be issued to the Volunteer Force; and, whether the new barrel is identical with that fitted to the rifle at present in use in the Regular Army?
§ MR. BRODRICKThe issue of the new rifle to Volunteer corps which possess ranges at which it can be used, will commence next year. The new barrel is identical with that issued to the Regular Troops, including the latest improvements. ["Hear!"]
§ COLONEL DENNYI beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for War with what powder the cartridges for the new rifle for the Volunteer Force will be loaded; and, what price will be charged for issues requisitioned by regiments for private practice?
§ * MR. BRODRICKCordite will be used with the new Volunteer rifle. The price charged for issues to regiments for 1131 practice privately will be at vocabulary rates, which vary from time to time. The present price, which is expected to be reduced, is £5 12s. 3d. per thousand. ["Hear, hear!"]