HC Deb 05 March 1903 vol 118 cc1557-8
MR. GIBSON BOWLES

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War will he direct that before the proposed new rifle is finally adopted the effect of shortening the barrel in increasing the recoil shall be further tested in order to ascertain the influence of this greater recoil on accuracy of shooting when the weapon is used by the rank and file of the Army; and can he say whether it is proposed to recommend the proposed new rifle for use in the Navy; and, if so, whether the Board of Admiralty will have any voice in the matter.

THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE (Lord STANLEY,) Lancashire, Westhoughton

The new pattern of rifle has been finally adopted for land service. As my hon. friend has been already told, the question of the recoil was fully considered A number of these rifles have been under trial by the Navy, and it rests with the Admiralty to decide whether they will adopt the new rifle for the Navy.

In reply to further questions, Lord Stanley said the new pattern rifle was adopted after many trials. He saw no objection to placing one of them in the Tea Room for hon. Members to see.