§ 45. Captain CUNNINGHAM-REIDasked the Prime Minister whether, to obviate as far as possible the use of firearms in cases where troops or sailors may be called upon to intervene in civil disturbances, he will consider the issue to the services of some form of tear gas?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)Occasions for the intervention of the armed forces in civil disturbances are, I am glad to say, very rare in this country. The suggestion made by my hon. and gallant Friend has been noted.
§ Captain CUNNINGHAM-REIDIs it not possible that if there had been some alternative to the rifle, for example, in the recent disturbances in Cyprus, there might have been a considerable saving of life?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid that this country is not Cyprus. I was only asked about this country.
§ Mr. BERNAYSWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the intense anger that would arise if such gas were used?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe House may rest assured that none of these considerations will escape our notice.
§ Captain CUNNINGHAM-REIDIs it not a fact that in my question I did not only confine my inquiry to this country?