12. Mr. E. P. Smithasked the Secretary of State for War approximately how many firearms surrendered to the police have been passed on to his Department by the Home Office since the conclusion of hostilities; and what he has done with them.
§ The Secretary of State for War (Mr. Shinwell)Some 58,000 firearms of various types have been received from the police. A small number has been returned to the original owners, in cases where legal rights to possession could be proved. Some of special interest have been handed over to research establishments or museums. Incomplete or damaged firearms of no value have been reduced to scrap. The rest are passed to the Ministry of Supply for disposal.
Mr. SmithCan the right hon. Gentle' man say whether the War Office receives the proceeds of the sale of those handed to the Minister of Supply for disposal, and what is the total that has been received?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am afraid that I should have to have notice of that question.
§ Mr. TurtonIs it to be taken from the reply that anyone who has had a firearm taken away can apply to the War Office to have it back?
§ Mr. ShinwellThey may be able to apply, but about the response I cannot say.