asked the Secretary of State for War whether he is aware that the Peerless armoured car at present supplied to yeomanry armoured-car units is of obsolete design and unsuitable for co-operation with cavalry, and that the Peerless engine is of American manufacture; and whether, in view of the depression in the British motor industry, he will recommend that Government orders for the manufacture of armoured cars be accelerated?

My right hon. Friend is aware that the Peerless car is of old design, and is fitted with an engine of American make. As be informed the Noble Lord on 20th May, steps have already been taken towards replacing these cars. With regard to the last part of the question, the present replacement arrangements have been carefully considered from the point of view both of efficiency and economy, and my right hon. Friend cannot at present see his way to vary them.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is very serious unemployment amongst commercial motor-car manufacturers, and will he do what he can in order to assist them?

Is there any reason for wasting money?

This question is a question based on efficiency.

asked the Secretary of State of War whether he has any information with regard to the type of the armoured car now supplied to the German Army and police; the number of cars supplied or under course of construction; and whether a number of a new type of agricultural tractor convertible into armoured infantry carrier tractors are ear-marked for the German Army reserve?

According to my right hon. Friend's information, the number of armoured cars allowed and supplied is: police, 150; Army, nil. The types of the police cars in use are various. My right hon. Friend has no information as to the existence of a new type of agricultural tractor intended for conversion to an armoured infantry carrier.

Are any experiments being conducted in this country with regard to armoured tractors?

I must have notice of that question.