CAVGUY,
In one way that would make sense. The MOD doesn't want any gear or supplies getting into the hands of the IRA or other terrorists, so therefore go after the soldier, but on the other hand it would seem ridiculous to go after a average joe that would want to have a few in case of an emergency or just try them. In another thread we talked about the Irish 24 hour rations and how they're handed out on a limted basis. Same theory applies there.
Over here in the US, its completely different. The US gov't will spend thousands of dollars on MRE's, then put some silly disclaimer on the outside carton, then hand them out to soldiers/marines who, in turn, don't eat them or throw them away. Then the soldiers or gov't gets angry or upset when somebody tries to sell a case or two on ebay. IDK
Anyway, I'm curious what the legal issues are in places like Germany, UK, and other countries whose citizens are members here, regarding the purchase and/or possession of rations. Here in the states, our MREs have that familiar "commercial resale is unlawful," yet any preparedness company will send you as many cases as you can pay for.