HC Deb 30 July 1935 vol 304 c2447
3. Brigadier-General NATION

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office what progress has been made in the matter of the new light machine gun mentioned by the Secretary of State for War in his memorandum on the Army Estimates for the current year?

Mr. HACKING

As a result of trials extending over several years, the War Office has decided to adopt the Czechoslovakian light machine gun to be known in future as the "Bren" gun in place of the Lewis gun. Accordingly, an agreement has been made to use the patents for the manufacture of the gun in this country.

Brigadier-General NATION

Is any change contemplated with respect to the heavy machine gun?

Mr. HACKING

No, Sir; the Vickers heavy machine gun will be used in the future, as in the past.

Sir PERCY HARRIS

Will a royalty have to be paid to Czechoslovakia?

Mr. HACKING

Yes, Sir.

Mr. CONANT

Can the right hon. Gentleman say where the gun will be manufactured in this country?

Mr. HACKING

The new gun will be manufactured at the Royal Small Arms factory at Enfield.

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