HC Deb 25 February 1946 vol 419 c329W
Mr. Thurtle

asked the Secretary of-State for War if any opportunity is offered to soldiers, at the time they are demobilised, to purchase for their own use at fixed prices such articles of clothing as greatcoats and shirts; or why this is not done.

Mr. Lawson

On release soldiers are allowed to retain, free of charge, a complete outfit of Army clothing, including one suit of battledress, four sets of underwear and two shirts, but excluding a greatcoat. The Army overcoat may only be retained, on payment, where issue of a civilian raincoat is delayed owing to temporary shortages in certain sizes. The standard allowance of clothing coupons has been fixed in relation to the amount of clothing the man keeps, including the free issue of a complete outfit of civilian clothing.