MEDICALLY UNFIT

Evening Post, Volume XC, Issue 88, 12 October 1915, Page 4

MEDICALLY UNFIT

CASES BEFORE PARLIAMENT. Soldiers troubled with varicose veins, who have been "turned down" by doctors, found a champion in the House of Representatives yesterday in Mr. A. Walker (Dunedin), who asked if it was absolutely impossible for them 1 to go to the front. The Defence Minister (the Hon. James Allen) said it was entirely a medical question. He would not take the responsibility of saying that men so inflicted should go to the front. He would not have it said against him that he was responsible if these men suffered as the result of their weakness. Dr. Newman suggested that the Minister should consult with General Henderson and Colonel Valintine in regard to this matter. He believed that some men had been refused improperly. Men need not be refused who had varicose veins below the knee. He would like the Minister's assurance that he would look into this matter, and consult General Henderson. The Hon. James Allen said the matter KaSTieen looked into more than once, and he was bound to accept the advice of his officers. , Dr. Newman : He did not give you that advice. The Minister : It seems to me the hon. gentleman knows more About it than I do! (Laughter.) Dr. Newman : Perhaps I do ! (Laughter.)