§ Mr. NEWMANasked whether a contract for a number of Lee-Enfield rifles was recently awarded by the Commonwealth Government to the Birmingham Small Arms Factory; whether private armament firms are at present running full and overtime; and whether, if so, the Royal Small Arms Factory should have had a preference in supplying the rifle that bears its name?
§ Colonel SEELYThe Commonwealth Government has recently asked for a number of rifles. The manner in which the requirement shall be met is under consideration.