HC Deb 16 February 1937 vol 320 c982
29. Mr. Emmott

asked the Secretary of State for War how many units of the Territorial Army Anti-Aircraft Brigades charged with the defence of London are still equipped with three-inch guns?

30. Mr. Donner

asked the Secretary of State for War whether the three-inch guns with which the anti-aircraft brigades charged with the defence of London are equipped are obsolescent; and whether it is the policy of His Majesty's Government to substitute for them guns of 3.7 inch and 4.45-inch calibre?

Mr. Cooper

The units of the Territorial Army Anti-Aircraft Brigades are at present armed with the three-inch antiaircraft gun. This gun is still an extremely effective weapon, but in view of the still greater efficacy of the new types referred to in the question, it is intended gradually to substitute them for the three-inch gun.

Mr. Emmott

Could the right hon. Gentleman say when he anticipates that this substitution will be complete?

Mr. Cooper

I cannot answer that question without notice.

Mr. Lees-Smith

Has the right hon. Gentleman satisfied himself that the treatment of these anti-aircraft brigades by the War Office has been as good as it would be if they were under the charge of the Air Ministry?