§ Mr. Thorneasked the Secretary of State for War whether he can give any information in connection with the explosion at Shoeburyness, Essex, on Thursday, 13th April, when a sergeant was killed and two gunners were injured; and what was the cause of the explosion?
§ Sir V. WarrenderThe explosion was apparently due to the accidental ignition of the charge while a gun was being loaded. The two injured men are progressing favourably and are now off the "seriously ill" list. An inquest on the deceased sergeant was held on Monday last, and a verdict of "accidental death" was recorded. A court of inquiry is being held. I should like to take this opportunity to express sympathy with the relatives of the soldier who lost his life, and also with the injured men.