asked the Minister for Defence if it is his intention to adopt the FN.30 rifle for the Defence Forces.

The development of rifles and other weapons is closely followed with a view to the adoption of suitable types at the appropriate time. It is not considered that the time has yet arrived when we should commit ourselves to the purchase of the FN.30 rifle.

The Minister, of course, is aware that substantial difficulty in regard to supplies of ammunition might arise as a result of a similar decision taken elsewhere?

Could the Minister say whether or not Deputy Cowan supplies this rifle to his own army?