§ MAJOR RASCH () Essex, S. E.I beg to ask the Secretary of State for India what is the number of batteries with quick-firing attachment serving in India; also the number of howitzer guns.
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INDIA (Lord G. HAMILTON,) Middlesex, EalingThe question of what pattern of quick-firing attachment for artillery in India should be adopted is receiving and has received careful consideration; but as improvements are being made it is desirable to test the carriages so improved before they are introduced wholesale as a service pattern. There are, according to the latest return, ten howitzers with heavy batteries of artillery in India. In addition to these there are a largo number with garrison artillery, in siege trains, in forts and arsenals; but I do not think it would be desirable that I should state the numbers.