HC Deb 29 July 1914 vol 65 cc1322-3
48. Mr. BUTCHER

asked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that the question of granting ammunition to rifle clubs either free or at reduced prices has now been under the consideration of the War Office for nearly three years, and that more than a year ago a definite decision was promised without delay, he will now announce the decision at which the War Office have arrived?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Tennant)

As stated in reply to the hon. Member on the 1st July last year by my right hon. Friend the late Secretary of State, this question forms part of the much wider question of the future position of rifle clubs and associations in relation to the Army. With every desire to accelerate the settlement of all the points involved, the Army Council are unable to give any immediate decision except in a negative sense, but, as I have previously stated, the matter is still not finally decided.

Mr. PIKE PEASE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that an answer was given recently in which it was stated that an answer to the question would be given during the present Session?

Mr. TENNANT

I am aware of that. I would point out to the hon. Gentleman that this is a matter which has been the subject of difficult and delicate negotiation between the War Office and the associations for the past two years. This is rather a subsidiary point in connection with the subject.

Mr. PIKE PEASE

May I ask the hon. Gentleman if he thinks it possible that an answer may be given this Session?

Mr. TENNANT

It would be very difficult for me to give an answer to that question at present. In the event of the Committee reporting in the direction which, I understand, the hon. Gentleman desires, namely, that ammunition to rifle clubs should be supplied free or at reduced prices, that would be a matter for the Treasury to consider.

Colonel GREIG

Would not the desire of those persons to learn rifle shooting be much sooner gratified if they would join the Territorial Force instead of remaining outside of it?

Mr. TENNANT

That is so.