§ 27. Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYasked the Secretary of State for War whether his attention has been called to an accident with the new Mark VII. rifle at Pirbright on or about 15th July last, whereby a corporal of the 3rd Worcestershire Regiment was injured in the right hand, and the rifle jambed with a bullet in the barrel; whether a full inquiry has been held, and what steps have been taken to prevent the repetition of such accidents in the future?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is presumed that by the expression "the new Mark VII. rifle" is meant a rifle resighted to fire the new Mark VII. ammunition. The rifle with which the accident occurred is now at Enfield, and a full investigation is being made to ascertain the cause of the accident. Until this is completed it is not possible to state the steps which may be necessary to prevent the repetition of the accident. Many millions of Mark VII. ammunition have been fired without any accident which could be attributed to it.
§ Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAYWill the right hon. Gentleman let me know when he is able?
§ Colonel SEELYYes, I will send the hon. and gallant Gentleman notice.