HC Deb 30 May 1946 vol 423 cc225-6W
Brigadier Mackeson

asked the Secretary of State for War if he will make inquiries from the Society of Miniature Rifle Clubs regarding.22 rifles with a view to taking steps to make more rifles available.

Mr. Lawson

1,258 Winchester 22 rifles firing " short " ammunition are in the process of being declared as surplus to the Ministry of Supply. I regret that, as stocks of.22 rifles firing " long " ammunition are at present inadequate to meet Service requirements, I can see no possibility of being able to release any further.22 rifles.

Brigadier Mackeson

asked the Secretary of State for War how the prices of.22 small-bore ammunition used by miniature rifle clubs compare with those charged in 1938; and if he will take steps to reduce the price of this ammunition and to increase the allocation to miniature rifle clubs.

Mr. Lawson

Officially recognised miniature rifle clubs should be able to obtain their requirements of ammunition from the Society of Miniature Rifle Clubs to which they are affiliated. I am not aware of the prices charged by that body. All Army stocks of.22 ammunition will be required during the next year or two to meet training needs, but should unforeseen surpluses arise, disposal will be carried out through the Ministry of Supply in the normal manner.