HC Deb 08 April 1914 vol 60 cc1950-1
36. Mr. HARRY LAWSON

asked the Home Secretary what howitzer batteries were under order to assist the civil power in Ireland; whether these weapons fire projectiles charged with lyddite, i.e.,, picric acid detonated with picric of lead, emitting yellow fumes which suffocate and paralyse where they explode; whether these projectiles have a back blast of 10 yards as well as a wide forward blast; and, if so, how would they be utilised in defending lives and property in case of civil disturbance?

Mr. McKENNA

The reply to the first part of the question is that no batteries were under orders to assist the civil power in Ireland, and the remaining parts of the question do not therefore arise.

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Were any howitzer batteries ordered to be moved from one part of Ireland to another?

Mr. McKENNA

Not so far as I am aware, but if any such orders were given they would not have anything whatever to do with the subject-matter of this question.

Mr. HUNT

Was one of the guns loaded?

Mr. McKENNA

The hon. Member has confused packing with loading.