§ 20. Captain MURRAYasked the cost of the one-man range-finder provided for Regular Infantry battalions?
§ Colonel SEELYThe vocabulary rate for the Marindon range-finder is £81 8s. 6d., inclusive of the case; and for the Barr and Stroud range-finder is £59 16s. 6d., inclusive of the case.
§ Sir H. CRAIKIs it not the case that the prices vary considerably according to the numbers of the order, and that if an order extending over a number of years were given the prices would be considerably reduced?
§ Colonel SEELYNo doubt that would apply to all the articles with which we are furnished. It does not follow that we should be wise in binding ourselves to one particular type, to the exclusion of others, with a view to getting a reduction in price.
§ Sir H. CRAIKWould it not be possible to order a considerable number at a time?
§ Colonel SEELYThe question of range-finders is rather too large a question to be properly discussed in the limits of a question and answer. I shall be glad to answer any specific point the hon. Gentleman puts to me.
§ 21. Captain MURRAYasked the number of one-man range-finders that it is proposed to issue to each Regular Infantry battalion?
§ Colonel SEELYThe number is five.
§ 22. Captain MURRAYasked the cost of a mekometer?
§ Colonel SEELYThe vocabulary rate for the complete mekometer, including cases, is £8 7s. 7d.