asked the Secretary of State for War why the Polish troops stationed at Seighford, in the county of Stafford, have been issued with ration cards and clothing coupons.

A limited number of leave ration cards has been issued to these Poles, to which they are entitled in the same way as British troops. No clothing coupons have been issued to them.

Is my hon. Friend aware that although there is every sympathy for these unfortunate men in my constituency, some disturbance is being caused because of the large number of purchases being made there? Will he get into touch with other Departments to see that additional supplies of goods are sent to the constituency to meet this extra demand?

That would not be necessary. These leave ration cards are issued on exactly the same terms as to British troops, and I am sure that now we are looking after these Poles my hon. Friend would not wish them to be deprived of the ordinary facilities of Army life.

Would not my hon. Friend agree that where several thousand Polish troops are involved there is a great additional demand for supplies? That is having a peculiar effect on supplies in the shops.

The ration cards are issued in consultation with the Ministry of Food.