HC Deb 18 February 1914 vol 58 c930
23. Sir RANDOLF BAKER

asked whether the new rifle which was under trial last year has now been definitely abandoned; and what is now being done to provide a suitable weapon for the Army?

Colonel SEELY

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. With regard to the second part I would refer the hon. Gentleman to the statement I made in this House on the 30th July last.

Sir R. BAKER

Are we to understand that this new weapon with which the right hon. Gentleman was so satisfied last July has not been definitely abandoned, and that still there is some hope of making it into a sound, serviceable weapon?

Colonel SEELY

The matter is one of importance that could not possibly be dealt with by means of question and answer. If the hon. Gentleman will refer to my speech of 30th July, and will then put down any other question, I shall be glad to answer as far as possible.