March 1994

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Special Easter edition

ALL WE SEEK IS JUSTICE

Fresh study could hold the key for veterans ■ ■ ■ ■

THE National Raddogical Protection Board is funding a study to explore the possible association betoeen unrecorded doses to nuclear test participants, the development of a cataract type knovn to be inducible by radation and the level of stable and persistent chromosomal damage in blood cefe.

The chromosones of cells are particularly sensitive to radation and damage to these microscopic bodes can be used as an indcator of radation exposure. This offers the prospect of detecting unrecorded radation exposure of personnel at the nuclear test sites.

Conventional methods of chromosone analysis may have been used for many years to relate chromosone damage in sampled blood cells to the dose of radation received by indviduab or groups of indviduab. The problem with these conventional methods b that they depend upon detecting chromosone damage that has a relatively short lifetime in the Wood system New molecular methods can detect staWe chro­ mosone damage which may persisb in the Wood for long periods, but the technical demands of the meth­ ods are such that it would be impractical to screen large numbers of veterans for the presence of chro­ mosone damage in their Wood cells.

In order to maximise the efficiency of the study, it was decided to consider those veterans who have developed a specific form of eye cataract - posterior subcapsular dsease. Although this cataract occurs in the general population, it is abo kncwn to be induced by exposure to radiation.

Thus, if an association with radation exposure were to apply to a group of veterans with this cataract it should be accompanied by an elevated level of staWe chromosone damage in their blood compared with that in a matched set of veterans without cataract and with that in the general population.

Ten mafched pairs of vWunteer veterans have been selected for the first phase of the study. The clinical and laboratory work will involve other organisations that specialise in cataract dagnosis and mWecular analyse of chromosones.

The first phase of the study, which has been initiated with the help of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund, and the veterans associations, will begin the year and initial results should be availaWe in 1995. A fWlow up study will be considered in the light of the results obtained and would invWve further discussions with the veterans associations.

Sad toll of close colleagues whose lives were wasted OHN Scoles, RAF; Jef Hobby, RN; John Reynolds, RE; Major Thompson, RE; Dennis Lofts, RN, CPO; Laurence Pearse, RN. This is a roll call of the names of our veterans who have ded in the last year - names of smashing men with whom IVe talked, listened, joked and had a drink with.

It makes me very sad when I think of the lives wasted and for what and for whom?

In Ken’s press release of 25th January, 1994, he asks the question: "Were radiation experiments earned out in Britain on the civilian population.?"

I can tell you yes. My own mother was experimented on in 1942. She did not complain because she put her trust in doctors.

For that trust she was given a massive dose of radia­ tion which dsfigured her neck for life.

This was from an x-ray and she suffered from preco­ cious anaemia at that time and did not realise she was pregnant with my sister.

My mother died 14 years ago from cancers like the veterans have and was denied the joys of her grand children and great grand-children.

In November John and I hadthe pleasure, together with Peter Fletcher and Ken Taylor, of seeing the Very Rev. David Stancl'rffe consecrated as the 77th Bishop of Salisbury in Westminster Abbey.

It was an added bonus for Peter and I to be able to take communion in such an old and beautiful place.

After the service we parted company from Peter, and Ken then John and I had lunch at Church House. Never before have we been in the company of such "heavenly bodes."

The Bishop is new on a voyage of dscovery. He has a camper van and for the next three months he will be vis­ iting his flock, getting to know the 270 clergy and 452 parishes in his patch. He will be missed.

But we have the pleasure to come of meeting the Rev.Mchael Yorke who is taking his place at Portsmouth Cathedral. □ IT is with regret that our representative David Riley has resigned, but we would like to thank him

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for all the work he has done. David was the first representative there since John and I founded the group.

I tried hard to make him change his mind when I went to their meeting in January, but I failed miser­ ably.

■ I ALSO attended the inquest of CPO Laurence Pearse, RN, in December. Laurence ded in July of multiple myeloma.

A miss Frances represented the NRPB and she is assistant drector at Didcot and is also a physicist in radobiology.

She said she ddnT knowte causes of multiple myelo­ ma and leukemia is the only recognised dsease linked to radation.

A Dr Bass was the pathologist and he said itwas his very first case of a suspected radation victim, he dd sayatumourwastakenandvas very rare. I must add the inquest was not requested by the family.

Aware of pensions, a widow from Dorset was awarded a widows pension after fighting for over nine years. The advice she gives is when a widow appeals and is given a statement of the case, get someone who was actually there with the husband to go through what happened and to challenge the authorities as they tend to (forgive the words) "add bullshit". Thereisnootherwordforit Get the person to write a letter clarifying what wont on.

I'd just like to say to all of you, have courage, strength and hope to carry on.

FOOTNOTE: Followng Bobbie's report of the inquest Peter Fletcher and Ken decided to find out who Miss Frances Fry was Peter spoke to a doctor at the NRPB, part of the study team, who said he knew of no lady at the NRP who would or could attend an inquest and make that state­ ment.

Peter later telephoned a doctor contact at the NRPB who confirmed they ha a Dr Frances Fry who was a physicist and qualified in radiobiology. She is also assis­ tant director at the NRPB. The true cause of multiple myeloma is unknown, how­ ever it is firrr/y established leukemia is linked wth radiation.

Bobbie Brewster

What a letdown by Mr Rifkind Here is the copy ofa letter that appeared in the January issue ofNavy News and came from JR Gower of Hurlford-by-Kilmamock.

Regardng *No Cash for A bomb veterans' (January issue). I was captain of HMS Diana, detailed to be ’guinea pig’ ship for the two A bomb explosions.

We becamo a dose knit company and have remained so • after 38 years we can still muster over a hundred at our annual reunions.

Our case rests on the fact that we steamed through two separate fallouts a month apart on May 16 and June 19. On completion we were due to return to Freemantle, but the Australians ’Hacked’ us.

Instead we went to Singapore prior to returning to our station in the Medterranean. We received no commendation for such a unique and hazardous peacetime operation.

Their Lordship’s and Diana's Flag Officer in the Mediterranean, may have been more concerned with the pendng Suez crisis. We were soon involved, Diana was ordered to Aden to be joined by first HMS Kenya and she in turn was relieved by HMS Newfoundand from tie Far East The war started. On the first nkfit Newrfoundand and Diana sank the Egyptian frigate Dorriat Diana was overwhelmed by survivors for a week.

When we were released from Aden in the New Year, we got home to Plymouth after a year’s absence and the great British public had forgotten Monte Bello. But the memory of those who served in Diana has lasted over the years.

Now Mr Rifkind has shut the door as a result of a report from NRPB. Yet I wonder how many of the 300 officers and men dd the Board interview?

We ex-Diana’s deplore the decision and remain dsenchanted with the attitude of the MoD. J R Gower Hurlford by Kilmarnock

A message ef Hcpe at Caster Hope Springs Eternal - We are all familiar with that saying. On the tower of Liverpool Parish Church - "St Nick*s" which many of you know so well, there is a beautiful golden sailing ship called The Donnelly.

If Liverpool folk are asked when some­ thing is going to happen, they often reply: "When The Donnelly docks." I heard a man say it after he was asked when he was going to pay his Poll Tax. The devastating findings by the

National Radiological Protection Board, after so many delays, have caused anger and bitter disappointment to many of you. You must wonder whether there will be any justice this side of Eternity.

Such feelings are very understand­ able, yet some words of St Paul come to mind from his first letter to the Corinthians (15:19). "If our hope in Christ is limited to this life only, then of all people we are the most to be pitied."

God is a God of justice. Ultimately and that is a terribly hard word - His jus­ tice and His righteousness will prevail.

Our struggles and our prayers will not have been in vain if our cause is just.

Some people think this is "Pie in the Sky". I prefer to think it is more reliable than the arrival in the harbour of The Donnelly. I wish you and your families a joyful and hopeful Easter.

Rev.Nicholas Frayling

MORE NEWS IN BRIEF FROM ALL RROUND THE COUNTRV N Sunday the 1st of May this year, several of my husband’s workmates from T Wright’s of Hull and Bryant Homes of Birmingham, aim to complete the Three Peaks walk in support of our Association.

Their aim is to do this as a sponsored activity in order to raise money and help replenish the dwindling funds of the Association.

Having accomplished all three of these peaks, I can tell you that it is no easy task and for those of you who are not walkers, or don't know what this walk involves, I'll try and tell you a little bit about it.

The Three Peaks walk is a recognised test of ability and endurance and is also a gruelling test of stamina.

The walk usually commences in the small vil­ lage of Horton-in-Ribblesdales and consists of 24 miles of rough walking over limestone and moor, including climbs over the summit of the three highest peaks in Yorkshire. It must be completed in the allotted time of 12 hours.

The first of these peaks is Pen-y-Ghent (2,273ft). After a fairly steep, long, uphill haul, the summit is reached. This peak includes a rock climb of approximately 200ft.

Second is Whernside (2,416ft). It is a tiring and

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long drag up to this summit.

Last, but by no means least, is Ingleborough (2,376ft). This, I think, is the hardest of the three and I found it very exhausting.

Total climbing distance incorporated in this 24 mile walk is 7,065ft.

It is quite an achievement to have completed this walk in the time allowed so please do your best to fill in the sponsor form given out with this issue of the magazine and give the lads your full support.

We do need your help in raising funds for the Association.

Sue Lyons (Associate Member) Humberside Branch

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AM writing to remind members and Associate members that subscriptions and associate members fees are now due.

It is imperative that the subscriptions and asso­ ciate members fees are paid. Due to the amounts of monies that had to be paid out in the last year, these subscriptions and fees, along with any donations, help us to remain solvent.

Without these funds we will be unable to keep the fight going so therefore You Must Help Us So That We Can help You. Subscriptions are due in January annually. To those who have paid their 1994 dues, many thanks, and also thanks to those members who have sent donations ranging from £5 to £100. I repeat - thank you, thank you, thank you.

Bill Krttsen National Treasurer

T Bill Kittsen ere's a short poem submited by Mrs Glynda Houtt from Wakefield and it is entitled mln Time".

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’Each occasion we glimpse him, that turn of a head, that smile. The way he walked, his sense of humour, each time a knife turns in our hearts.

Lord Parry

HE case for Nuclear Test Veterans still remains as strong as it ever was. None of the denials or rejections by Ministers diminish it in the slightest. And it continues to gain support in and out of Parliament..

One day, the British Government will accept it just as other government's have, notably the U.S.A..

In time, through the window's of our tears, we see him and smile. In time we'll let go of sorrow, in time beauty and music, remembered places bring solace not pain.

In your lime, God of all time, what we have sown in pain is reaped in joy. and we'U always remember.'

Jack Ashley Meanwhile MP's, and Lord's will continue their efforts and will supplement the valuable work carried out by the Association.

Lord Ashley

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HE years go by. For those who have been injured in atomic tests, they are painful years. At this time, those of us who have become associated with the campaign, trying to bring attention to the complaints of our many friends who were involved in the tests, are par­ ticularly conscious of the need, very very quickly, to try to bring home to the powers that be, how necessary it is to resolve the problems that we believe to have been caused.

I send my greetings to the many, many friends that I have made during this campaign and hope that we may, by constantly raising all the issues involved, come to a happier conclusion than we have managed up to now.

Lord Parry

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E'RE all preparing for our annual get together, the AGM at Blackpool. This year it takes place on Saturday 30th April and the venue once again is The Horseshoe Bar, Pleasurelands, South Shore.

Would members please note that those attending should sign the book on entering before they take their seats. Access will be available from 1pm.

The agenda for the afternoon will be as follows: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Parade ofStandards.

Act ofHomage -Last Post - Reveille Apologies for absence.

Minutes ofAGM 1993.

Chairmans report.

Vice chairmans report.

Secretaries report.

Treasurers report Widows representative and War Widows Association.

10. Election of Officers.

11. Election ofcommittee.

12. Any other business.

13. Chairmans round up.

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Everyone knows the value of hemp prepared, but do you know the value of The Co-operative Funeral Bond You pay for the funeral at today’s prices. Guaran­ teed- with no additional costs whenever the funer­ al occurs - conducted anywhere in the United Kingdom

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Please note: Votes will only be counted if a Full Member is holding up current membership card. A Full Member is a Nuclear test veteran or the widow of a Nuclear test veteran.

From approximately 7.30pm we will hold our social evening in the Ocean Suite which is situated on the4 ) same complex. Anyone wishing to bring or send a small prize for the evening raffle, please do so. It will be most appreciated.

We again extend our deepest gratitude to the Blackpool Conference Office who pay for the room hire (Horseshoe Bar and Ocean Suite) on our behalf.

Also, thanks to Mrs June Cowell of the Tourist Board and Miss Karis Bailey of Blackpool Pleasure Beach Limited for their invaluable consideration and assistance.

SUNDAY MAY I: There will be a Church Parade and service (all denominations) at the Salvation Army Citadel, Raikes Parade, Blackpool, taking place at 11am.

Weather permitting, we will march through the town with the Salvation Army band and disperse at approximately 12.30pm.

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FOOTNOTE: As our annual general meeting falls on the May Day Bank Holiday week-end, why not extend your stay and make the most of the facilities available.

If you haven't booked your accommodation, do so now. There are plenty of hotels, guest houses and self-catering accommodation available. If you have any difficulty or require any help on this count, Peter Fletcher will be most willing to assist you.

ANYONE WHO WISHES TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE BNTVA MAGAZINE, PLEASE WRITE T0PETER FAULKNER, 30 COTSWOLD GARDENS EAST HAM, LONDON E6 3LA or phone him on 081-472 5106

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Chairmans report

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HERE was uo denial of the alleged discrepancies in the study from cither the NRPB or the MoD after I had sent them the copy of the BNTVA response. A copy was also sent to the Prime Minister, but I can appreciate that he has other severe problems to deal with. We have also discussed that a watered down version of the NRPB report has been placed in the House of Commons library, although the missing parts would show much more analysis than the Governments official conclusions.

My message to all MPs Is that they demand the full report rather than the obviously biased version. I must emphasise that no official body has asked me for the missing leukemia's and myeloma's that w’c have on record which is higher than the NRPB's findings. I have asked Viscount Cranboume if the MoD would confirm in writing to satisfy to all test participants who were in the study, that all 21,000 were included. He was hesitunt to say the least, but I believe if the MoD did write a letter to the participants and also to the control group confirming that they were included, they would be unable to do so ns they have not traced all the participants.

In the second study it was an amazing co-incidence that in the control group, the incidence of leukemia and ,myeloma shot up. Maybe the reason for this was that in the 1950-60's era, the effects of radiation on humans was only just beginning to emerge. Radiation samples etc, were transported back to the UK in Diplomatic bags on domestic flights for example. Contaminated ships, planes stores and equipment were handled unknowingly by servicemen and civilians at ports and airports all over the globe as well as in the UK. The stories go on.

So it was no surprise to us when the figures in the control group increased. Of course, there is the experimental training ground at Porton Down in Wiltshire where servicemen "volunteer" to be tested for scientific and medical programmes. I ask you this, when we joined HM Services, we were never asked or signed anything to the effect that we could be asked to be called upon to be a test for scientific curiosity.

If the Government had any respect for their servicemen, they would engage an Independent Ombudsman for the Armed Forces to cut out these inhuman practices. Recently MPs were told that War criminals residing in this country should not be prosecuted. I'm not at all surprised because I believe we have had many people of the same mind employed by our own establishment who have behaved in a similar fashion.

To conclude, I believe the NRPB report is still incomplete, in fact it leaks like a sieve. So again I suggest that either the MoD or the NRPB, to call their bluff, write now to the participants and control groups to let them know that they are in the study. They cannot and will not admit that they have made many errors in the study - the hidden statistics, the genetic effects - important issues that any caring and compassionate Government would have looked into. But this Government lacks these two important qualities.

Doctors have written to me very concerned at the NRPB's so called Independent Study. One summed it up by truly stating "he who pays the piper calLs the tune". We continue to receive support und encouragement from many, many members of the House of Parliament and the House of Lords, of all parties. To these ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of all of us, we salute you and thank you. We are also receiving added support and encouragement from eminent people in both the medical and scientific profession. Apart from that we have "God on our side".

PUBLICATION of the SECOND ANALYSIS of BRITISH NUCLEAR TEST VETERANS WHEN Peter Fletcher and I arrived in London, we were shocked to discover that the results of the publication of the Second Analysis of Nuclear Test veterans was already published in the press stating there was "no link" to the veterans.. How could we possibly respond when the victims were to be presented with the findings at 2.30pm the following day, 9th December 1993.

On Thursday 9th December, we decided before attending the briefing that we would boycott this set up. Two miles away from the QE11 Conference Centre, a press conference was being held by the NRPB for invited Press at the same time. 2.30om. We sent a representative to this meeting, but he was told "we would not be allowed in" because "we may cause a scene." /Viter 10 minutes he was allowed in.

It was another shock to discover that the study closed in London IN DECEMBER 1990. Therefore it excluded seven cases of leukemia as well as twelve cases ofmyeloma victims, most of whom were actually in receipt of War Widows pension for these types of radiation-linked diseases.

Mr Peter Fletcher and I both took all our records on file to the NRPB in Oxford, at their request, in March 1992, to update the Study and we worked there for two days unaware that the Study had closed TWO YEARS EARLIER. We have also kept them fully aware of all new- medical questionnaires, Death Certificates etc, since 1988 until December 1993.

Dr Barbara MacGibbon stated at a meeting with Peter and myself, along with other NRPB officials, and I quote: "After the study we are doing with nuclear workers, we weuld like to do a study on the Veterans children. In fact, I'm almost certain we will do a study on the children." /\ couple ofmonths later she resigned. Was she pushed or did she jump?

In a letter dated 2nd December, 1993, Dr Kendall stated that a Minister would make a statement after 15.30pm on 9th December, 1993. The Minister was NOT in the House and no statement was made. We were there in the gallery awaiting Mr Rifkind's statement.

The new study in the BMJ now reads: 1988 - Leukemia 12 Myeloma 6 1993 - Leukemia 6 Myeloma 3 However, up to July, 1993, the following victims were excluded from the Study: Leukemia 7 Myeloma 12 These new' figures far exceed the findings of this study and are contradicting NRPB's own statistics. Just over 21,000 servicemen and civilians took part in Britain's Nuclear Test Programme between October 1952 - October 1958.

STATEMENT: In view of the way the NRPB, together with the MoD, conducted this now* disgraced inquiry, we will demand an immediate public inquiry. It is very clear that the NRPB are puppets to the Government and cannot and should not be trusted for any future independent studies.

Ken McGinley

News from around the branches North Yorks and Humberside THIS last year has been quite productive in the way of raising branch funds, our main source being car boot sales.Thank you to members who gave their much appreciated help. Branch membership is increasing nicely though I do wish more members would take the trouble to attend meetings. They are held on the forth Tuesday of every other month starting in january.

Once again we look forward to meeting up with old friends at the AGM in Blackpool. There are twelve members attending from this branch and we are again booked in to the Granville Hotel where I am sure we will again get a warm welcome from Pat and Wilf Taylor.

I do hope members give their full support as sponsors to the Three Peaks walk (see Sue Lyons story on page 3). Let's all make their noble efforts worthwhile and send any monies (made payable to BNTVA) to: Natonal Secretary, Tom Kitching. 5 Ellerby Road, Preston Road. Hull HU9 3PR

Tom Kitching

West Midlands branch IT is with sorrow that I have to report the loss of two of our members within the last three months. Firstly Dennis Mills, suddenly, following a heart attack. Both branch and association will surely miss the work and effort Dennis put into our campaign.

Secondly. Barbara Tivendale. sadly, passed away after a short ill­ ness. I have never before attended funerals where the church was so packed with mourning relatives and friends paying their last respects.

Our deepest feelings go out to their respective families.

It was a bitter blow to all of us at the findings of the NRPB study.

Their figures appeared so wrong, I wondered if they used an abacus to count.

Through the medium of our magazine, I would like to extend my thanks to Derek Heaps (East Midlands) who. on a few occasions, took over the branch in my absence due to family and business com­ mitments. Thank you Derek.

The Service of blessing and dedication of the West Midlands memo­ rial plaque has. for various reasons, been postponed until Autumn 1994. We will notify all when a final date is decided. In closing, we in the West Midlands look forward to seeing you all at the AGM in Blackpool on Saturday April 30th.

Archie Ross

Portsmouth branch THE Portsmouth branch hold meetings on the last Tuesday of every month and they are held at the Hampshire ex-servicemen's club on Fratton Road, Portsmouth. The aim of the meetings is to keep the local veterans informed of the progress of the BNTV A in their fight for justice. During the meeting the regular members donate prizes which are raffled off to raise funds for the branch. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the two widows who deal with this task with zest.

On the 19th February the branch held its annual memorial service at Portsmouth Cathedral. It was taken by the Very Reverend Canon Michael Doe and also in attendance was Cllr Mike Hancock. Thank you to him for his interest and continued support.

February 19. 1952. "HMS Zebrugge* and HMSNarvic' set sail out of Portsmouth bound for Monte Bello and Britain's first A Bomb test.

Aboard the two ships were ships crew, Royal Marines, 180 officers and men of 71 Field Squadron RE. We hold this service annually by our memorial stone.

Dave Riley

North and Mid Wales branch It seems a long time since I put pen to paper for the newsletter. My views have never changed since I first phoned Ken McGinley many years ago to offer my support in his fight for justice for British Nuclear veterans.

I remember in my early years being very active, like so many other veterans, but now choose to be in the background, although I would like to think I am only a phone call away if anyone needs help or just a chat.

Here in Wales, we have always had wonderful support from televi­ sion, papers and radio with Peter and Gron Williams in South Wales, who, I might add, have become wonderful friends to my wife and myself.

In North Wales, though our numbers are small, we have always stuck together having meetings now and again rather than on a regu­ lar basis to keep the cost down. Here I feel the newsletter is doing a wonderful job of keeping veterans informed, Over the last few months we have had articles about veterans in local papers. We have been on the radio and television and we have had wonderful support from our local War Pensions department at ^ Wrexham, with some of our clients being successful.

I have noticed there has been an increase in Veterans being ill due. in my opinion, to their being involved in the Nuclear tests. It is impor­ tant that we all carry on our fight for justice and I am sure the pen­ sions will increase in numbers.

Finally may I send my best regards to all Veterans and their fami-

lies.

Peter Bullen

Widows Representative SINCE the NRPB report was published and the meeting with the Ministers was to no avail , I would have thought it would be a good idea if all our widows wrote to the Minister telling him their individual stories. The Minister has agreed to look at further evidence and he might take more notice of separate letters rather than 'en bloc'. I could, if necessary, send a list of our widows but they do not all tell me what their husbands illnesses were.

A War Widows pension has been awarded for brain tumour. I had a very interesting phone call last week from a widow whose husband was serving in Gibralter in 1959 and handling radiation packages and loading them onto a boat before being told to dump them in the sea.

He died from a brain tumour and and lung cancer three years ago.

Needless to say this widow is now applying for War Widows pension.

Is this another phase of cancers rearing its ugly head.

I feel that some widows may not be receiving the correct amount of WW Pension. If they are over 60 years of age and getting less than £100, something could be wrong. Of course, it all depends on length of service and rank so do check your amounts carefully. There is a DSS help line number which will quickly give you confirmation and this is 0253-858858.

Basic pension for next year is £74.70 per week. MoD allowance for those who qualify is £48.70. Single pensioners allowed 50p towards fuel. Allowance for childless widow under 40 years of age is £17.28 per week - all other ranks £17.54. Child allowance increased 5p first child and 10p others.

Mavis Gardner

Canadian representative KEN Leyland, our representative in Canada, writes and phones to say h® is very busy building up Canadian connections and is encouraged by the response so far. Due to his letters to the media he has received invitations to speak to students in schools and colleges about the tests. He is hopeful of attending the AGM in April.

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News from around the branches North East Branch AT the time of writing, it is rather disappoint­ ing to find that the NRPB are taking the stance that in their opinion the nuclear test programme had no affect on our members, the higher figures of leukemia and myeloma among veterans being written off as "by chance".

In my opinion that is wrong and that is not the reason why a study was set up in the first place. I also believe it was very mischievous to write out a report, as they did, to convince the "world" everything was all right. No harm done, so to say.

The reasons being that while they sat and compiled the report they knew they had many other reported cases of these two par-

ticular cancer's on their desk which would not be included in the report and if they had been taken into consideration the whole situ­ ation would have changed.

With that in mind, how could any decent person write the report they did? Why did they ask our executives, as late as 1992, to go to their office with an update of the deaths when they knew the cut-off date was 1990.

We should really have had a health study, not a mortality study because for so many recorded illnesses that our members have, it is impossible for such a fine body of men to find themselves in the position they are in today.

There are many meetings being set up in

an attempt to remedy this situation. It is a setback for us at the moment, but I am confi­ dent that our fighting spirit will carry on to rectify this injustice.

Lastly, why can this Government give £20million to Australia to clear contaminated land at three different test sites and then say no-one was exposed to radiation? Our members worked, ate and slept on these sites.

My best regards to everyone and I look for­ ward to seeing you at the AGM.

Mike Reid

Bucks, Beds and |East Midlands branch Northants branch I would like to thank all the day), for attending and giving us IT is with regret that I have to inform our committee of the passing of John Savage, 53, on the 16th January.

John, who leaves a wife, janice, a son, daughter and twin grandsons, was a staff sergeant with the RE and served on Christmas island from 1962-63.

I am interested to know what other insignia were used for the other opera­ tional Tests (1952-62). I served on Operation Grapple (1956-57). Any other information please.

Do you know of an ex-RAF fireman who was on Christmas Island from 1956-57 and came from the bauff/Macduff area of Scotland. He returned home on TSS Captain Cook August 1957.

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members and friends who attended the Memorial Stone blessing and dedication service in Leicester on that cold November Saturday afternoon last year.

A special vote of thanks to Mr C Carter, his staff and the direc­ tors of Leicester Co-operative Funeral services, who so kindly donated our beautiful stone, and to our Vice-Chairman Peter Fletcher, whose letters and phone calls brought about this lovely gesture.

Also to our own Canon Nicholas Frayling (who, despite a very heavy cold and running a high temperature drove from Liverpool and back the same

his blessings and sermon.

Also thanks to Rev Derek Richaby, Father Michael Dunn and Mr Keith Vaz MP, who unveiled the stone and promised his continued support of our Association.

The actual laying of the stone will take place in "Peace Walk", Leicester, on Saturday 23rd April, 1994, with a small prayer service.

Tea and biscuits will be served in the church hall following the service. For further details, con­ tact me nearer the date.

Derek Heaps

South Wales branch SINCE the print of the last maga­ zine, there has not been a lot happening.

As most of you know, the result of the NRPB report was very dis­ appointing to us, but that is nothing new. It only makes us more determined to keep fight­ ing until justice is done to one and all.

May I remind you that the annu­ al general meeting will be taking place in Blackpool on Saturday 30th April and I hope to see as many of you there as possible.

Peter Williams

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Merseyside branch J

ONCE again we are into the "getting the Association Magazine out" season. To those not involved it just means a magazine popping through the letterbox. However, to people at the sharp end it means getting in excess of 80 magazines returned with gone away labels on them. So please, if you move let us know. Apart from the inconve­ nience, it's also a waste of Association money.

Then we get the complaints after the publi­ cation that we never mention Monte Bello, Emu Field, Maralinga, Christmas and Malden islands. Well, if you don.t write for the Magazine it's your own fault. So all you budding writers out, put pen to paper.

Finally on this subject, photographs are also a problem. Peter receives many that are either too small or creased and cannot be used. Remember a fair sized black and white print is ideal.

At the moment things are in a state of limbo here on Merseyside, but Peter Fletcher and myself have both been busy.

We recently had a meeting with Canon Nick Frayling, our National Chaplain, of which I am sure a lot will be heard of later. The Canon is also again involved with the laying of another Nuclear Test Veterans Memorial Stone, this time in Birmingham. Date not yet finalised.

We are now looking forward to the AGM at Blackpool when hopefully we will see large numbers from all over the country.

Remember it is a public holiday week-end.

You should have received your sponsor form with your Magazine from Tom Kitching, so please if you can hep then do Finally read the cautionary item on SO. war pensions opposite which I urge you all to remember.

Chris Rowlands

Pensions Shock Regarding war pensions. I am 67, have A state pension for my wife and me, plus £1.77 per week income support for both of us. I rent a house, pay a small rent and do not pay any council tax.

But now because I have been awarded a war pension of £45 per week, this is classed as income and added to my state pension.

This means that I will have to pay full rent of £24 per week and £406 per year council tax. I lose my income support, which means that I will have to pay for dental care, eye tests, spectacles etc. I will be worse off, not better.

So to you would-be claimants of war pensions who are on benefits, don’t both­ er to claim, ft is not worth the hassle.

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NOTICE BOARD

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SCHEME has boon launched on the Isle of Wight to assist past and present mem­ bers of the Royal Navy and help them gel in touch with old friends.

The scheme is called RN Shipmates and is based around a comprehensive cross reference filing and card index aimed at putting exRoyal Navy personnel in touch with former shipmates or members of crew or commission, no matter how far back Names and addresses are not given to any third party only to people being sought.

What’s more the service is totally FREE, although a small donation towards the cost of postage and administration is gratefully received Those who would like to contact former shipmates should send all their details, giving nicknames, names, ships etc. and as much additional information as possible to: R N Shipmates, 7 Heath Road. Lake, Sandown. Isle of Wight P036 8PG. KRE'S an article from Eric Warne of 1 Cedar Grove. Hempstead.

Gillingham. Kent, and it is taken from the Maralinga News-sheet in 1958 pos­ ing the question: "Knocker 2 - Who am I?" Eric wonders if Knocker 2 is still about to stand up and be counted. The paper has cricket results dated May 28th so it was around that time in 1958 when Knocker 2 was there.

"I think he must have worked in adminis­ tration." says Eric, "as he seems to know a lot of names of the men there, both Brit and Aussie.

"Durance was the name of the Australian Range Commander, a Colonel in the Australian Royal Engineers. My own name. Warne, is there too."

Were you at Maralinga 1958? Is your name here? Did Knocker 2 know something we didn't with his (category C - unfit for children)??? Read on and see what you think:

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WHO AM I? "Knocker 2". whose sensitive spirit has been bruised by uncouth remarks by persons who identified themselves with his articles of our second issue, tells in this article some of the events which made him as he is today. <Category U - unfitfor children).

“As a child I was MOODY, but apart from that a SMART UTI LE FOX. My FOSTER mother was a good COOKE and did every thing in her POWER to meet my NEEDS 7 could eat a BUSHELL of FUDGE, drink a HEA P of COFFEY - yep, Ma DUNN her BEST to fill me to the GIL/S. “My dad used to say 7 WARNE you KA Y, he's a YOUNG HOGG and he gives me a PA YNE. All he thinks about is filling his KYTE and. by GODFREY, if he doesn't improve he will MERRETT the KANE

She looked lovely that SUMMERS day with die BREEZE ruffling her CURLEY BROWN hair, gathering FLOWERS on the FAIR BANKS ofthe MURRA Y. “Yes. she was the real MOLLOY and a bit of all WRIGHT and 1 knew I must SEYMOUR of her. Often I would TURNER head with gifts, lure her to the FORREST at KNIGHT and try to DEAR. But no dice. Evidently I did not SOUTAR and gradually my passion WITH ERS “After leaving school I tried several jobs.

First / was a GROOME, but although I learned to say WAUGH, / kept getting my SPURS tangled, going for a BURTON and biting the DUST. "Then I went as a camp COOKE, but I kept forgetting Tddo better as a GARDINER. "Another job as a BUTLER to a wealthy BREWER nearly drove me BA TTY so I took a position as a CLARKE in an office.

"One day old DOUGHERTY, a WISEMAN from IRELAND, said: "There's GOULD in them thar hills, “It took PLUCK to say good BYE, but I ROSE to the bail of wealth and ivith my swag kept HEADON EASTWOOD to STAKER claim. I found the goldfields, but got slung in quod when two old PROSSes said Td tried to CHEETHAM. mThe judge speaks very FRANKISH like and says to me: "If HUGO OWEN MOORE than you earn, you may be CARSE'd into DURANCE vile and WATTS MOORE may even be banished to MARAUNGA." HE photograph at the top of the page has been submitted by Mrs Sarah Purchase, daughter of the late Dennis Lofts, who served at Monte bello in 1952.

II After service Dennis started work with Wiltshire County Council and became water bailiff.

Alas, Dennis passed away in 1992 and the Wiltshire County Council erected a bridge in his memory. The iascription reads: "Lofts Bridge. In memory of Dennis Lofts 1927-1992. Water Bailiff and Rights of Way wardea LSO pictured above is the beautiful War memorial in Kings Park. Perth, Western Australia.

It is sited high up and overlooks the City and the river.

You may just be able to distinguish the guard of honour each side and Bill Plewright, President of the Australian Veterans, with Peter Fletcher, paying their respects after lay­ ing wreaths at the October 30, 1991, Veterans memorial Service.

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NOTICE BOARD HRISTMAS Island, 1958. Jim Clark of Kettering asks whether anyone can recall the "Official Document" made up by some wag and headed "Notice of Return".

Copies were made and some of the lads sent them home. Jim says he sent a copy to his wife enclosed in a OHMS envelope. "We had no idea when we were going home so I pul the first date that came into my mind. Strange as it was, I actually arrived home on that dale," says Jim. "The letter frightened the life out of my wife and she sought advice from certain people in the village. On my return home, it was quite some time before people slopped giving me strange looks and muttering amongst them­ selves. This is what the document said.

NOTICE OF RETURN. Issued in solemn warning this I Oth Day of Nov 1958. To the neighbours, friends and rel­ atives of23485003 L/Cpi Clark J. Lock your daughters in their rooms. Fill the fridge with cold beer and get his civvies out of mothballs. Very soon the above-mentioned soldier will be once more in your midst, radio­ active, dehydrated and demoralised, eager to resume his place in society' as a human being, entitled to liberty’ and justice while engaged in the somewhat delayed pursuit ofhappiness.

In making your joyous preparations to wel­ come him back to civilisation, you must make allowances for the crude environment which has been his unfortunate lot for the past 11 months.

In brief, he may become a trifle Polynesian in his outlook on life, be suffering from Crabitis or even the shakes (a common complaint 'local' brought on by consumption oftoo much Watneys. Pegasus or Tennants). Therefore show no alarm if he prefers to sit on the floor instead ofa chair, always kicks his boots against the step before entering the house, wears only a towel when visiting the neigh­ bours. has an epilepticfit at the sight ofa coconut or has a tendency to salute anyone of importance.

His diet should, for the first few weeks at least, consist of tinned milk watered down con­ siderably. dehydrated potatoes or other canned vegetables. Fresh or rich food, espe­ cially milk, should be avoided for the first few weeks and then introduced gradually. His only meat should be corned beef.

Do not allow him on the main road unaccom­ panied. it will be his undoing. Tra ffic he has forgotten and rather than walk anywhere, he will sit on the pavement for hours waiting for some motorist to take pity on him arul give him

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a lift His language may be rather embarrassing at first, but in a relatively short time he can be taught to speak good plain English again.

Never ask him why the old boy' down the street has a higher rank than him ami make no flat-

Derek Heaps, Keith Vaz MP, and Peter Fletcher in Leicestershire. tering remarks about Navy or RAF in his pres­ ence.

For the first few months (until he has been house trained), be particularly watchfid when he is in the company of women, especially young and beautiful specimens.

After seeing beautifld women being wooed by handsome men on the cinema screen, he thinks he is the master ofthe art himself. His inten­ tions will be sincere, though dishonourable.

Keep in mind that beneath his tanned and rugged exterior there beats a heart of gold.

Treasure this, it is the only thing of value he has left.

Treat him with kirulness, tolerance and occa­ sionally a quart ofgood whiskey ami you will be able to rehabilitate that which is the hollow shell ofthe man you once knew.

Signed.......... Officer i/c Rehabilitation Advisory Committee E B Cumming OBE He will be coming home in approximately 17 days.

ARRY Duff of Saltcoats, Lanarkshire, served with the 25 Field Engineers Regiment on Christmas Island and he submitted an old photograph (too blurred to re-produce here) of the open air cinema.

Harry asks how many members can remember the famnous Sophia Loren cake.

He said it was donated to the troops bySophia in December and was very quickly demolished in the NAAFI on Christmas Day.

November 27, last year.

The picture shows Derek Heaps. Keith Vaz MP and Peter Fletcher admirinbg the inscrip­ tion.

The BNTVA would like to thank the Leicestershire Co-operative Funeral Societies who donated the plaque, and their manager Mr R C Carter and his staff who worked so hard on our behalf following Peter’s request tore their assistance (see separate report on the ser­ vice).

FORMER sailor. Mr H Ollington from the H.M.A.S. Hawkesbury, told the Royal Commission in Brisbane that his job on the ship was to run the evapora­ tor and that was a device which took the salt out of the ocean.

Mr Ollington added: "Prior to the explosion there was a large geiger counter fitted to the discharge pipe, the pipe that brought the water once desalinated into storage.

It was the main pipe which went into the header valve and each one of these valves turned the water in the direction it was required to go.

Mr Ollington also related to the Royal Commission that the geiger counter never slopped clacking and its red light never went out after the explosion.

Mr Ollington had to remove the coils from the evaporator every 24-32 hours and llush them.

About once a month the salt encrustaton was chipped off the copper coils.

T the top of the page is a photograph NOTE: Peter Fletcher said that the Royal taken at Leicester following the dedi­ Navy ships at Monte Bello also had this type cation ot the Memorial Stone on of equipment.

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NOTICE BOARD TERRY Mercer (ex-NAAFI Christmas Island 1959-60) of 7 Pollrtt Crescent, I Clock Face, St Helens, Lancashire, writes to say what a surprise he had at the dedication of our memorial stone in Leicester last November.

He and Peter Fletcher were putting out the service sheets in the Church of St James the Greater and being the nosey so and so he claims he is, Terry was glancing through one of these sheets and a name popped up at him.

It was that of the clergy taking part in the service, the Very Revf r Michael Ounn, OP. Terry wondered: Could it be the same Michael Dunn that he knew, or once knew in the middle sixties.

He mentioned it to Peter and said that a few years after leaving Christmas Island in I960, he had entered a monastery. This was situated in Rugeley, Staffs, and one of the Brothers was called Brother Michael Dunn.

What a great joy it was for Terry to discover it was to meet him after the ser­ vice and discover it was one and the same person. Even greater joy to find out that Father Michael still remembered Terry too.

So you see it really is worthwhile attending these various functions that the association arranges each year. You never know whom you will meet and it goes to show that it REALLY IS A SMALL WORLD. PS: Terry has some old photographs, but cannot remerrher names. But one is "YorkY, one is Sapper Rocky udson and there's one of a Manchester Sapper who wrked in the Christmas island Port power station. His last photo shows a Sapper with a butterfly tattoo on his uuper left arm Pity the pictures are too faded to repro duce here.

A USTRALIAN Commemmorative Medal. This medal covers service in Japan, /iMonte Bello, Emu Field, Maralinga, Malden Island and Christmas Island, but this is your last chance to obtain one.

They can be obtained by voting to the Vice Chairman, Peter Fletcher, enclosing a cheque for £30 inclusive of postage and pacing. Cheques should be made payable to Peter Fletaher (Medal) BNTVA. For more details ring Peter on 0744-29636. If you require one PetBr will order them in bulk from Australia (delivery approximately 5-6 weeks). The order will go off to Australia on May 30 so please order now.

M ole fr°m Bobbie Brewster to sary that she has just read in the new Scientist llthat our own Rosalie Bertell has been appointed President of Canada's International Institute for Public Health. f^NCE again our good friend Peter Wylde at the Lottery Office has provided us Uwith our magazines and envelopes. We are gratBful to him for that However, we are not suporting the lottery in the manner that we should so please, contact Ken Taylor on 081-555-2644 for details of how yu can help or, alternatively, ring the Lottery office on Freephone 0800-526-408.

Mational Secretary and Regional representative, Derek Heaps, is often asked I wif he knows so and so or such and such ship or does he know anything about this Squadron and that regiment, Usually he has to answer in the nega-

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r! i ABOVE: They're not spacemen, robbers or astronauts. It's just Thomas Hunt and Tubby Harrison being fitted out with so called pro­ tective overalls prior to a Christmas Island test in 1958.

BELOW: Another picture from the past submitted by Thomas Hunt (338 Field Regt RE Ctulsland 1958) and he is photographed with Taffy Wells, Tubby Harrison and John Plait.

tive.

To assist members of the Association to track down old mates, he said he is willing to form a register of personnel. With the ravages of time memories go a little and Derek, like many others, says he can remember faces of pals he was with, but the names have all gone.

Such a register will assist with a pension claim if back up information is required. This is an example of what can be done: Derek Heaps, RAF 1325, Flight Dakota's SAC Engine Mechanic, tent C19 Christmas island, January 1957 to September 1957. Sailed home on the Empire Clyde.

In addition if you don't have a representative in your area and would Ifce to act as one, write to Derek. And if you are writing to any of your representa­ tives please enclose a stamp addressed envelope if you want a reply • it does help.

II ERE are some questions not asked on quiz show« which might give you bit of a M chuckle this month.

1 When Clark Kent becomes Superman, who looks after his clothes?

2. Why is a wong telephone number never engaged?

3. What street dd the old woman who lived in a shoe reside in?

4. Wiy do you sit down in a grand stand?

5. When Captain Kirk goes where no man has been before, how come someone is wailing for him?

6. What is Quasimodo's surname?

7. Why does Bafrnan wear his underpants outside his trousers?

8. Why <fd Hurrpty Dumpty climb the wel in foe first place?

First correct entry will be made acting unpaid Lance Corporal with effect from date of postmark.

niD you serve in the Army, Navy or Air Force on Operation Buffalo at UMaralinga? If so please contact Lawrence Deverall (ex-RAF in Canada.

He is currently in litigation and feels he could glean lots more evidence to assist everyone from Buffalo participants. He can be contacted at: PO Box 49, Diamond City, Alberta,Tok.Oto, Canada.

MS Salvictor, Christmas Island 1957. G.DXee, 87 Peaslands Road, Sidmouth.

Devon, would like to hear from old shipmates with a viewto a reunion, nerek Heaps , 4 Bakewell Drive, Castle Donnington, Derby, DE7 2NF, would Ulike to hear from anyone who worked on the Auster Aircraft or the heli­ copter used for spraying the island (DDT). How much did the spray tank hold?

How many hours flying her day were done?

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Vice-Chairmans report WILL nol dwell too much on the N.R.PJB. findings as it is well cov­ ered in our Chairman's report. However, I will say we were "stitched up" in no uncertain manner by very devious, underhand persons from within the walls of Westminster and Whitehall.

Devious and Underhand are about the politest words I can think of. I could use stronger language, but a good family upbringing prevents this plus I do not fancy facing charges under the Obscene Publications Act. Our Chairman, Ken McGinley, our solicitor Mark Mildred, Mike Doyle and myself were treated with contempt. A ploy was set up to deliberately keep us away from the media. Why? What were they afraid of? Were they afraid we would contradict their figures? Were they afraid we would ask questions that would not or could nol be answered? Were they afraid the media would witness All this?

Thefindings ofthe study were to be given at 230pm on Thursday. 9th December 1993. Two meetings were set upfor exactly the same rime 2.30pm in buildings some two to three miles apart in Central Ixmdon.

(1) In the offices of the Imperial Cancer Research Fund for selected press.

(2) In the Queen Elizabeth 11 Conference Centre for B.N.T.V.A. and its legul representatives. The media would nol be admitted to this meeting.

We requested one of our members, Mr Derek Fiddaman to attend the meeting at the ICRF building, but on introducing himself as B.N.T.V.A. he was refused admission. Why? We had already decided we could smell something odd. A quick con­ ference formed the decision that we would boycott our arranged meet­ ing. On leaving the Queen Elizabeth Centre we were confronted by a BBC television camera crew and woman interviewer who had been refused admission. Both Ken and I gave a lengthy interview.

I was then asked to go across to a mobile radio broadcasting van to give a radio interview. Following a ten minute wait in the biting cold, I was then told, "sorry we do not need it." Not one piece of this TV cov­ erage was transmitted. My inquiries to various BBC television offices as to why this happened, got me no answers. No-one knew anything about it or the crew or the interviewer.

This so called interview on camera prevented us from going across to the ICRF building where we knew the media were out in force.

With reference to the two separate meetings, I asked my contact at the N.R.P.B.: "Why?". He replied: "It will be better and quieter giving you our findings without interruption from the media and the inconvenience of camera's , lights, microphones and electric cables all over the place."

However, it was quite convenient for these inconveniences at the ICRF building where Dr Clarke, NRPB, and Sir Richard Doll and Dr Sarah Darby, both of the ICRF, could give the media their story and give the answers they wanted while we had no chance whatsoever to have a say in the matter.

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OLLOWING weeks of negotiating, our Ix»rd Gordon Parry arranged for us last summer to meet and discuss matters with Viscount Cranborne, Under Secretary of State for Defence.

This meeting was aborted by the Minister because our legal represen­ tative in the courts at Strusborg requested he be present. There was some mis-understanding and, ns stated, the meeting was cancelled - no lawyers. However, Lord Parry tried again and it was arranged that the Viscount Cranbome would give us an audience on Januury 19th, 1994, for informal talks.

Who attended? Lord Gordon Parry, Lord Jack Ashley, Ken McGinley, Mike Doyle and myself. ALso with us was Mr Dudley Cook, who was the High Commissioner on Christmas Island from 1959-1962.

Present to meet us was Viscount Cranborne, one of his secretaries and a Ministry of Defence scientific advisor and MoD legal advisor. The meeting proved negative, but it was friendly and amiable.

The next day, January 20,1 wrote to the Minister thanking him for meeting us and requesting, if possible, a copy of the minutes. To date I have had no reply.

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E have asked for the release of documents, now well past the 30 year Official Secrets Act, only to be told by the Ministry of Defence that they cannot because of (1) National Security and (2) Reasons of seasitivity.

National Security? Grammar school children can make bombs given the right materials. The bombs we were involved in are obsolete com­ pared with modern day nuclear weapons.

Reasons of sensitivity? What sensitivity? Who, what are they protect­ ing? Who, what arc they hiding? Time passes, documents come to light.

Slowly but surely hidden history and secrets unfurl themselves. Look at recent times both home and abroad. USA: Human experimentation with radiation etc. Our own UK experiments on servicemen at Porton Down and other places.

It is a known fact that service people arc "cannon fodder". But now we learn civil airlines, both British and Australian, were used to trans­ port large quantities of radiation samples from Monte Bello, Emu Field, Muralinga, Malden Island and Christmas Island under the cloak of a diplomatic bag thus putting at risk civil pilots, air hostesses, passengers.

Just how far afield has the radiation spread? Is this one of the reasons of sensitivity? The mind boggles. To the Prime Minister, the Minister of Defence, the people they use and employ in the corridors and back­ rooms of Westminster and Whitehall, I send this message: Reach for your biblc if you have one.Turn to the Gospel of St Matthew and read verses 26,27 and 28 of Chapter 10. If you do nol possess a bible or cannot be bothered to look it up, it reads.

Fear them not therefore for there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed, and hid. that shall not be known.

What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light, and what ye hear in the ear. that preach ye upon the housetops.

Andfear not them that kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul, but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell Elsewhere within the pages of that precious book it reads: " Be sure vour lies, deceit and sins will find you out."

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OW following the NRPB report, I am pleased to say we have gained more allies on the benches of Purliuraent. It was good and surprising the number of letters and phone calls Ken and I received from doctors, scientists, statisticians and, yes, some of our own senior officers who want to join us.

Not one, not two, but a number of television areas, both BBC and ITV, have contacted us with a view to highlighting our campaign.

Negotiations are going on for Ken and I to accompany some MP's to Washington DC to meet and discuss things with members of the US Senate.

March 8th, 1994:- Mike Reid has arranged for himself, Ken McGinley, Mike Doyle, Ken Tuyior and 1 to meet a group of North West members of Parliament in Westminster. This meeting will be followed by us going before the Parliamentary Labour Party’s Shadow Defence committee to discuss matters.

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952-58, British Nuclear weapon testing programme. "Test conduct­ ed correctly, no-one harmed then or now. Ixinds, properties harmed, but now safe."

If all this is true why has our Government agreed to pay the Government of Australia the sum of TWENTY Mild.IQS POUNDS S TERL1NG to indemnify claims which arise out of death or injury of any person and to clean up the land at Monte Bello, Emu Field und Maralinga.

When I relayed this news to my good friend and ally Bill Plewright, President of the Australian Veterans, he replied in a real slow, deep Aussie voice: "Bullshit mate. I'll believe it when I see it and when this Government of our's acts."

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ON'T forget the Annual General Meeting at Blackpool on 30lh Aril, 1994. See you there. If you have any problems on how to get there or have accommodation difficulties, please ring me and I will advise and help if I can.

inallv, on behalf of Ken and myself, we thank you for your letters and telephone calls thanking us and encouraging us. This ull makes us feel good. Also to our committee, Chris Rowlands, Ken Taylor, Bill Kittsen, Mike Reid, Mike Doyle, Bobbie Brewster and, last but not least, Derek Heaps, a special thank you for your invaluable assistance and co-operation.

ADIOS AMIGOS, see you all in Blackpool.

PS: Australian Conunemorative medal, covering Jafxm. Monte Hello. Emu Field. Maralinva. Malden island. Christmas island. No orders after May 30th. So order now!

Peter Fletcher

British Nuclear Tests Veterans Association (1992) EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN: Ken McGinley 12 Walpole Place Johnston Renfrewshire PA5 ORE Tel: 0505-704963 VICE-CHAIRMAN: Peter Fletcher “Monte Bello” 134 Clipslev Lane Havdock St.IIelens WA11 0UB Tel: 0744-29636 SECRETARY: Derek Heaps 4 Bakewell Drive Castle Donnington Derby Tel: 0332-811429

TREASURER: Bill Kittsen 28 VVestovcr Green Bramley, Leeds LS13 3SO Tel: 0532-360703

Mike Reid 70 Rochdale Road Redhouse Estate Sunderland SR5 5QQ Tel: 091-549-7620

SOLICITOR: Mark Mildred 165 Greenwich High Road London SE10 8JA TEL: 081-858-8926

Mike Doyle 14 Exeter Gardens Stamford Lines PE9 2RN Tel: 0780-65622

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Chris Rowlands 14 Monksdown Road Liverpool LI 1 1HH Tel: 051-226-3441

Ken Taylor 56 Eastbourne Road Stratford, London E15 Tel: 081-555-2644

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Bobbie Brewster (Mrs) 61 Cedar Road, Hythe Southampton S04 6PS Tel: 0703-844489

BRANCH REPRESENTATIVES Mike Reid (England) 70 Rochdale Road Redhouse Estate Sunderland SR5 5QQ Tel: 091-549-7620 John Lowe (Manchester) 45 Sheldrake Road, Broadheath, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 5LJ TEL: 061-941-2164 Peter Bullen (North and Mid Wales) Penlan Mill Cottage LLandegai, Bangor Gwynnd LLS7 4LG Tel: 0248-352708 Tom Kitching (Humberside) 5 Ellerby Grove Preston Road, Hull HU9 3PR Tel: 0482-793082 Bill Kittsen (West Yorks) 28 Westover Green Bramley, Leeds LS13 3SQ Tel: 0532-360703 Archie Ross (West Mids) 230 Burton Road, Woodville Nr Burton-on-Trent Staffs DE11 7JR Tel: 0283-222113

Chris Rowlands (Merseyside) 14 Monksdown Road Liverpool LI 1 1HH Tel: 051-226-3441 Peter and Gron Williams (South Wales) 27 Heol Mvrddin, Ffairfach, Llandeilo SA19 6PD Tel: 0558-822141 Dave Riley (Portsmouth) 190 Locksway Road, Milton Portsmouth P04 8LE Tel: 0705-735669 Ken Taylor (London) 56 Eastbourne Road Stratford, London E15 Tel: 081-555-2644 Bobbie Brewster (Mrs) (Southampton) 61 Cedar Road, Hythe Southampton S04 6PS Tel: 0703-844489 John Jones (South Yorks) 16 Peters Road, Edlington Doncaster DN12 1NJ Tel: 0709-867775 Derek Heaps (East Midlands) 4 Bakewell Drive Derby, Tel: 0332-811429

Paul Rowles (Kent) 4 Huntsmans Close Rochester, Kent ME1 2RD Tel: 0634-828827 Widows Representative Mrs Maris Gardner 30 Link Road, Anstcy Leicester LE7 7BW Tel: 0533-364737

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Ken Leyland (Canada) 8840 Douglas Street Box 2121, Port Hardy BC Canada, Von-2PO Bernard Canovan (Lancs) 18 Bog Heights Road Darwin, Lancs BB3 0AW TEL: 0254-771499 Mrs Janet Lee (Cornwall, Devon, Dorset) 132 St Swithins Road Bridport, Dorset DT6 5DS TEL: 0308-458225 Pat Hurley 24 Caxton Road Old Wolverton Milton Keynes Bucks MK12 50PG TEL: 0908-313024

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No glad tidings at Xmas, but we try to be positive THOSE of us who are hoping that the final report of the National Radiological Protection Board would provide a stimulus and support for damages claims for veterans, were largely disappointed by the report which was published just before Christmas.

The Board's interim report, pub­ lished in 1988, showed a striking excess of leukemia and multiple myeloma, the two cancers most sys­ tematically attributed to radiation exposure. ^ The excess of myeloma has disap™ peared completely in the final report.

However, those in the test veteran population in the Study were three times as likely as those in a control group of similar servicemen who had not been at the tests, to have suf-

Report by Mark Mildred, fered or died from leukemia.

The authors, however, were not sceptical about a cause and effect relationship between service at the tests and leukemia simply because the rate of leukemia in the test veter­ an population was not very different to that of the population of the UK as a whole.

The result of this, 10 years and many hundred’s of thousands of pounds further on, is that there is still disagreement on the question whether or not service at the Tests is likely to have been a cause of leukemia.

A veteran who wants to make a

claim for damages (as opposed to a claim for Pension) is going to have to show that he was exposed to a dose in excess of the Regulations at the time.

Given the paltry amount of informa­ tion about the doses received, it seems that the burden of proof is working unfairly against the claimants.

The Study leaves everything but cancer untested. The Board is, how­ ever, starting a pilot study to investi­ gate whether service at the tests can be shown to have caused cataracts.

Let us hope for a quicker and more positive outcome.

Legion vows to carry on the fight for pensions payout THE SECOND NATIONAL RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION BOARD REPORT. THE second report by the NRPB was published in December 1993. In con­ sidering the report it is imperative to bear in mind that only cancers and mortality are addressed.

The Royal British Legion's Pensions department supplied infor­ mation to the Board on the nuclear test cases held on file in order to assist them with data as part of their overall research.

The Report's findings concluded that those who took part in the tests had no higher risk of contacting can­ cer than other service personnel.

Twenty two nuclear test veterans died from leukemia and six from mul­ tiple myeloma compared with six and none respectively from the control group of 22,000 other veterans, used for comparison, who served in other theatres of operation during the peri­ od that the nuclear tests took place.

The higher incidence of these two

types of blood cancers, which were identified in the first Report pub­ lished in January 1988 and the only conditions accepted by the authori­ ties as likely to be more prevalent, was described in the Report as con­ fusing.

On balance the Report concludes that there may may well have been small hazards of both diseases asso­ ciated with participation in the nuclear test programme and that fur­ ther research was desirable, as indeed was recommended in the first Report.

The Legion is disappointed that the Second Report appears to be no more conclusive than the first and will continue to press for more research into the possible effects of nuclear test participation.

At the same time the Legion will continue to assist those nuclear test veterans seeking compensation in the form of war pensions for condi­ tions they associate with their ser­ vice and nuclear testing experiences and the widows of veterans of the tests who consider their late hus­ bands deaths were due to or were

substantially hastened by their ser­ vice in the Forces and their participa­ tion in the British Nuclear tests.

In the majority of cases, the onus of proof will be on the claimant or appellant to show beyond reason­ able doubt that the conditions are due to service or the nuclear tests whichever is the case.

In these circumstances it is usually necessary to obtain supportive opin­ ion from a specialist in the condition or in blood cancers or in radiation medicine in order to prosecute a case successfully at a War Pension Appeal Tribunal hearing. This the Legion will continue to do.

However, in view of the outcome of the second NRPB Report is it most unlikely that previously rejected claims and appeals could be the sub­ ject of reconsideration and those appeals adjourned to await the Report will now be listed without supportive evidence which could have applied had the document established a definite link between the tests, mortality and cancers in the nuclear test veterans..

Sickening screams were heard at A-bomb site PVEY - Human screams were heard from a bunker less than 500m from where au atom­ ic bomb had detonated at Maralinga, accord­ ing to an ex-servicemen’s association.

The Association told of the screams in a sub­ mission to the Koval Commission into the British nuclear tests carried out in the 1950's and 19o0's.

The Maralinga and Monte Bello Atomic ExServicemen’s .Association says 20 members of Seventh Independent Field Squadron viewed an explosion at Maralinga on October 4. 1956.

It says that aboul five minutes after the blast, a scientist in protective clothing said he wished to use squadron members near the Marcoo bomb crater. They were driven to within 200>ds of the crater.

"The scientists ordered the personnel into underground bunkers to remove sandbags from the entrances. The bunkers were approximately 400-500m from ground zero..

Human screams were heard coming from the bunkers," the Commission says.

Included in a number of submissions given to the commission on its first day of hearings in Sydney yesterday, was a submission from Aborigines which says the tests programme led, directly and indirectly, to the death and illness of Aborigines in numbers still unknown.

It also led to the massive social upheaval of people being forcibly relocated from their tra­ ditional land.

This is a Royal Commission newspaper report published in October 1984.

The submission says that the Aborigines con­ tinued to move in and out of the prohibited zone at Maralinga, even during the tests, and that many Aborigines attribute many deaths and illnesses of relatives to the tests.

The commission heard evidence from ex-ser­ vicemen who had been involved in the tests.

Mr Lawrence Westwood, 57, of Doouside, Sydnev.was an able seaman in the salvage craft HMAS Koala which sailed into the deto­ nation area immediately after the nuclear blast at Monte Bello Islands in 1952. He said he thought the crew was there to observe the bomb and keep shipping out of the area.

He told the commission the crew wore only shorts and sandals and nothing was said about the dangers of radiation.

He said the crew was told to turn their backs and close their eyes before the detonation, but they were then told to turn and watch the cloud produced by the bomb.

They felt a shock wave like a strong wind for about four minutes after the detonation, said Mr Westwood.

The Koala sailed into the area immediately after the blast to pick up a landing craft. A diver attached a line to the barge and it was

winched to the deck where it remained until being offloaded at Freemantlc some days later.

Sailors wearing only shorts came into contact with the barge during the winching exercise, he said. The diver was later checked for cont­ amination and the sailors, including Mr Westwood, had a Geiger counter run over their clothing.

Mr Westwood said those whose clothing reg­ istered positive, about 15, had to strip and their clothes were dumped into the sea enclosed in cement.

The 15 sailors then took a series of showers and were tested with the Geiger counter after each one. Mr Westwood said he was cleared to go after taking six showers in a period of 30 minutes.

He said the crew was given no instruction about staying away from the barge once it was found to be contaminated and there were no more personal contamination checks.

Mr Westwood said that in two days in the area, the Koala also retrieved seven moorings from the sea. He told Mr Justice McClelland he had suffered from the skin disease psoria­ sis, since diagnosed as incurable, since the blast and that he may well blame the Monte Bello experience.

The commission, headed by Justice McClelland, was enquiring into the handling of British atomic tests in Australia in the 1950’s and 1960’s.

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NEWS IN BRIEF FROM ALL AROUND THE COUNTRY ■ DOES anyone recall the RAF Warrant Officerwho, on his amval at Christinas Island in 1957. expressed his theory that the eating of sharks liver proved to be a very strange aphrodisiac (Christmas Island aphrodisi­ ac???).

Some of the lads enjoyed shark fishing and he per­ suaded them to supply him with one. They obliged and on receipt of the shark, he promptly removed its liver, took ft to the cookhouse and got the ACC to cook it for him He then sat down and ate the lol

That night he was rushed into hospital and was report­ edly at "death’s doof for 48 hours. I wonder what cured him? Bromide injections perhaps?

P.GJ. ■ FRED HORNE of Merseyside branch, has complet­ ed a parachute jump. It was a last minute arrange­ ment and Fred had no time to organise the sponsor­ ship. However he did raise C30 among friends and donated it to the Association He plans a second jump and this time he hopes to organise sponsorship forms.

J LITTLE news from the London branch except to say that the NRPB report and related Government statements, means more documents are being released into the public domain at the Public Record Office.

A number of files were transferred to the PRO last year, but the office has been slow updating its index. Among the information released is yields for the Grapple test and Christmas Island envi­ ronmental monitoring.

The Cl monitoring report was produced

by AWE and should be available from them. If not ask them why. Their tele­ phone number is 0734-814111 or Fax 0734-815320. The report is Clare, PM et

al (1993), Environmental Monitoring at Christmas island 1957-58. Aldermaston, AWE Safety Division Technical note 16/93. AWE are the contact point for technical information relating to tests and if they are unhelpful ring the MoD on 071-218-9000.

The PRO files will give more informa­ tion on Grapple and earlier tests and later this year we hope to have AWRE files released. As more information is available we will let you know. The next few months are going to be intreresting to say the least.

Ken Taylor

Good on you Fred!

■ MRS Glynda Hoult of 6 Church Crescent, Netherton.

Wakefield. West Yorkshire, vwuld like to hear from Ay anyone who served with her late husband. Corporal ~ Wilfred (Tim) Holt, fire section and crash crew in Woomera from November 1959 to May 1962.

■ IF you are awarded a pension or lump sum less than 14% disability (reviewin five years), let Ken McGinley or Peter Fletcher know. It is important for our records that we are informed and in turn this does help others.

So please tell us, don’t become a member of the "FYJIA" club.

Despite the findings of the NRPB Study, the DSS are still awarding pensions for illnesses/deaths attributable to service.

And on a lighter note, did you hear the story of the young child who. when asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, replied: "I want to enlist in the Armed Forces, get pregnant receive a couple of hun dred thousand pounds then retire."

■ CALLING ex-Sappers of 73 Maitainance Squadron Royal Engineers who sailed to Christmas Island on December 30th, 1957 on board HMV Dunera. Bert Mori, Bill Towmley. Mk)k Maddox, where are you new?

Please contact Brian Ford, 31 Collin Road, Sutton Estate, Killingbeck, Leeds LS14 6AQ. Tel: 0532498879. Brian says he will be at the AGM on April 30.

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The GRANVILLE Licensed Hotel

47 Station Road (opp South Pier), Blackpool. ,______ TEL: 0253-342263________ Our / 3th year at iMtigroyd ami we look forward to another happy and successful 1992. Members of liNTVA and L _ _associates always welcome.

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SPONSORED WALK IN AID OF THE BRITISH NUCLEAR TEST'S VETERANS ASSOCIATION 1992.

ON THE 1st: MAY I994» SEVERAL EMPLOYEES OF T WRIGHT'S OF HULL AND BRYANTS HOLMES OF BIRMINGHAM, AIM TO DO THE THREE PEAKS WALK IN SUPPORT OF THE BRITISH. NUCLEAR TEST'S VETERANS ASSOCIATION. THIS WALK IS OVER 24 MILES, AND MUST BE COMPLETED IN. THE ALLOTTED TIME OF 12 HOURS, IT INCLUDES CLIMBS OVER THE PEAKS OF THE FOLLOWING. PEN-Y-GHENT. WHERNSIDE.

INGLEBOROUGH.

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2,273 Ft: 2,416 Ft: 2,376 Ft:

TOTAL CLIMBING DISTANCE - 7,065 Ft:

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