A solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell which contains a catalyst impregnated layer (7) in an ion exchange membrane (3) which is electrically isolated but ion conductive. In place of the catalyst layer, catalyst particles (29) existing in an anode and/or a cathode may be employed.
The catalyst layer and the catalyst particles are attributable to the prevention of the lowering of a cell voltage and the employment of an inexpensive hydrocarbon ion exchange membrane and of a thin membrane.