asked the Minister of Defence if he will give an assurance that men now with the Forces will, on demobilisation, be given civilian clothes on the existing scale; and that it is not his intention to substitute a money payment in lieu of clothes.

Men called up in 1947 for a fixed term of two years or less will, as announced by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour on 21st January last, receive a supplementary allowance of clothing coupons on release. All men called up before 1st January, 1947, and released under the age and service group scheme will receive civilian clothes on the existing scale. Certain difficulties are being experienced in the supply of suits, and to overcome them some modifications in the method of issue are now being discussed with the trade, on whose cooperation I am sure we can rely.

Does the right hon. Gentleman's answer make it clear that the pledge which has been given to the men will be kept? Is he further aware that his own intervention and action in this matter are greatly appreciated?

My view is that the pledge must be kept. It may perhaps happen that there may be a little difficulty here and there,. We are discussing the best possible way out with the trade, who, I am sure, will desire to help us meet the pledge which has been given to the men.