§ 11. Mr. Mellishasked the Minister of Supply to what extent the new self-propelled guns for the Army will be air-transportable.
§ Mr. Aubrey JonesThe self-propelled medium gun will not be air-transportable. The design of the proposed self-propelled gun will enable it to be carried by air both strategically and tactically.
§ Mr. MellishI thought we were supposed to be aiming for an Army that is mobile in respect of all its equipment, and if we have not any aircraft to take 'any equipment at the moment, and will not have for some time to come, what kind of procedure is it that designs a gun which cannot be taken by air and must be taken by ship?
§ Mr. JonesThe answer is that the medium gun is designed to reinforce the hitting power of the Centurion tank, which cannot be carried in any aircraft.
§ Mr. MellishHow long will it take by sea to get it where the hitting power is desired?
§ Mr. JonesI do not think there is any tank at present in existence which can be carried in an aircraft.