The Madsen Machine Gun

31 The Madsen [LORDS] Gun. 32 stion put by Lord Heneage, who suggested that steps should be taken to see that the gun does not get into the hands of the enemy, owing to the long time taken for consideration of the matter by the War Office and the Ministry of Munitions. I think some answer should be given. The Earl of CRAWFORD: There has been no delay at the Ministry of Muni- tions, which ordered these guns three years ago. In answer to Lord Heneage, I have no doubt that the Army authorities will take due note of his point. Personally, of course, it is impossible for me to say what is done in such a matter, but I have not a doubt they will take note of the word of caution. Lord HENEAGE: My Lords, the point is that there is a danger of the Germans securing the newest type of this gun. ■ They have already managed to get the original type, and it is stated on pretty good authority that they are manoeuvring to get the newest pattern of the gun. What steps are the War Office going to take, or can they take—I want to put it fairly—to prevent the danger of the Ger- mans acquiring the gun instead of us? The Earl of CRAWFORD: It is quite irregular for me to address your Lord- ships again, but I think it must be fairly obvious, even were I in a position to answer that question, that it would be perfectly impossible to make a public statement on the subject. Lord BERESFORD: I have to thank my noble friend Lord Crawford for his cour- tesy. I am quite satisfied with what he said. But I would like to add this. It is very material for these trials that a re- presentative of the Madsen firm should be with the gun. Can the noble Earl assure me of that? The Earl of CRAWFORD: Certainly. Lord BERESFORD: I ask leave to with- draw my Motion. Motion, by leave, withdrawn. 192 0 IIHSIH I »aTDrMMI MHfN.