British Forces, Far East (Armalite Rifle)

HC Deb 02 February 1966 vol 723 cc1063-4

11. Mr. Goodhew

asked the Secretary of State for Defence to what extent British forces in the Far East are now equipped with the Armalite rifle.

Mr. Reynolds

Infantry rifle companies, Commando and Special Air Service units operating in Borneo are equipped with this rifle.

Mr. Goodhew

Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the great value of this rifle, particularly in areas where much jungle fighting goes on, and can he assure us that there is no shortage whatever in these areas?

Mr. Reynolds

There are sufficient available where its use is an advantage over the ordinary S.L.R.