HC Deb 03 February 1948 vol 446 cc1628-9
40. Lieut.-Colonel Geoffrey Clifton-Brown

asked the Secretary of State for War why Poles are still allowed ambulances and trucks to convey them several times a week to Lakenheath, Suffolk, for social visits.

Mr. Shinwell

Transport for Polish units in Suffolk is under the control of British military authorities. Its use is governed by the same rules as apply to transport used by British troops. Under the present rules no officer or other rank is allowed more than one journey a fortnight or one a week in Winter for recreational purposes. All the work tickets of the vehicles concerned have been examined and all journeys have been found to be correctly authorised.

Lieut.-Colonel Clifton-Brown

Cannot something more be done, because the people in the area are very disturbed when they find they get no basic petrol, that these lorries should come into the town almost every evening?

Mr. Shinwell

In so far as these lorries are being used, they are being used for legitimate purposes. If occasionally a Pole occupies a seat in a lorry, I do not think that is to our disadvantage.

41. Lieut.-Colonel Clifton-Brown

asked the Secretary of State for War what allowances of clothing coupons are issued to Poles quartered in camps in Eastern England, who' are still issued with military clothing.

Mr. Shinwell

As the answer contains a number of figures, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Lieut.-Colonel Clifton-Brown

I hope that it will state how it is possible for the Poles to go into the shops now and buy what they like.

Mr. Speaker

That is not a question: it is a wish.

Following is the answer:

Members of the Polish Forces still serving in this country and wearing military uniform are entitled to clothing coupons as follows: Officers (men and women)—For period June, 1947, to May, 1948: 42 coupons available for articles of service uniform only. 21 coupons available for other clothing. Other Ranks. Men—None. Women—io coupons for the maintenance of handkerchiefs, dressing gown and slippers. Officers arriving in the United Kingdom from tropical countries may receive further coupons, if necessary, not exceeding 67.