The concept of a lightweight, easy to handle rifle for a smaller frame person denigrates those smaller framed persons who can handle a big bore proficiently. OK, I'm only joking.
Now, the idea of a lightweight, easy to handle semi-automatic rifle is a valid concept. You can carry more gear, operate it briefly with one hand and use the free hand to do something else (open a door, carry a small child, drag your buddy out of danger). I like the carbine concept but would opt for an AR based system instead of the M-1 Carbine. A couple of years ago I bought a scout-rail system for the M-1 Carbine and will mount it on my IAI carbine (the GIs will stay original).