§ 51. Mr. Stokesasked the Minister of Production what experience of tanks in action had those officials who decided in, or prior to, June, 1942, that the A22 would prove an excellent fighting vehicle?
§ The Minister of Production (Mr. Lyttelton)The officials responsible for decisions on tank policy in June, 1942, were the then members of the Tank Board. No member of the Board at that time had personal experience of tanks in action, but all were in constant touch with fighting officers who had. The Tank Board receive direct reports from the Research Sections in the field, and I may add that the predictions by the Prime Minister and myself that the A22 would prove an excellent fighting vehicle are now confirmed by highly satisfactory reports which were received last week about the performance of these tanks in recent operations in Libya. Both the armour, the gun and the reliability are highly praised. The 6-pdr. gun gave good service, and in general the tanks made a very favourable impression on all the crews as well as on the troops co-operating with them.
§ Mr. StokesWho with previous tank experience in the field was consulted before that machine was used?
§ Mr. LytteltonThat is quite a different question.
§ Mr. StokesIt is on the Order Paper. I will put another Question down.
§ Mr. LytteltonI did not say they had full power.
§ Commander AgnewIs not a lot of time wasted in these useless inquests?
§ 52. Mr. Stokesasked the Minister of Production what type of tank was coming off the production line in July, 1942, which had the necessary fire-power for the battles then raging?
§ Mr. LytteltonTanks with 6-pounder guns.
§ Mr. StokesWhat tank was it? The right hon. Gentleman referred to it himself in the Debate in July.
§ Mr. LytteltonThere was more than one type. I do not think I can give the types.