HC Deb 13 May 1918 vol 106 c34
56. Mr. SMALLWOOD

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, when the trial of an invention is decided upon by the authorities, the expenses of such trial are borne by the inventor or from public funds; and, if from public funds, whether an officer has any authority for demanding the cost of ammunition from the inventor, when it is legitimately required for the purpose of practice, before the actual trial takes place?

Mr. KELLAWAY

I have been asked to reply to this question. The expenses of any trial decided upon by the authorities are borne, should the inventor so desire, by public funds if carried out by the proper authorities or at their request. Further, if necessary, preliminary practice can be authorised, the expense of which is borne, if the inventor so desires, by public funds.