THE TANK INVENTION

Hokitika Guardian, 27 November 1925, Page 3

THE TANK INVENTION

MR CHURCHILL’S EVIDENCE,

[Australia A N.Z. Cable Association ]

(Received this day at 10.0 a.m.) LONDON, Novemter 20

Hon. W. Churchill, called as a Crown witness in Bentley’s tanks claim, detailed the history of armoured cars during the war, when he was First Lord of the Admiralty. He told how Admiral Suelor raised a squadron which operated most successfully until checked by deep ruts made by the Germans. “We were then faced with the necessity id' meeting new obstacles and the idea of vehicles capable of crossing rough country gradually took shape in my mind and in the minds of the officers concerned. I .summoned Admiral Bacon and asked him if 'lie could devise a machine which would cross trenches. Bacon was familiar with the tractor caterpillar so I directed him. to construct one. He furnished his own design, and 1 instructed him to proceed with the construction, hut otter developments supervened. Bacon’s design failed to pass a rigid War Office test. Later, experiments were made with steam rollers which wore coupled together hut these were unsuccessful. Although engaged in other grave duties, this, matter constantly engaged my mind, and in January. Oils, I wrote to the Prime Minister. suggesting that the idea lie developed. This was passed on to Kitchener and then to the Master-General of Ordinance, hut nothing resulted. The difficulties in the way of manufacture were most, serious and the practical advantages doubtful, so the whole proposal was pigeon holed. In March. 1915. Tennyson Deyiieomt reported there were two designs that could ho made. One with great wheels, the other based oil caterpillar action. I thereupon ordered six of one and twelve of tile other. This order was interrupted by the Government's resignation. when a move was made to drop the whole thing. Subsequently Mr Balfour was able to save tbe caterpillar machine which had previously been .rdcred to be destroyed. This machine was identical with the other tank and was a prototype of all tanks used during the war.” Mr Churchill said he did not- hear Bentley’.- name mentioned in •onneetion wit'll the matter which Lord Kitchener would almost eertandv have Mentioned to him (Churchill).