-Caveat Lector- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] THE EXPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26 1998 Secret tests on Gulf troops Radiation checks after top brass try to hush up the risk EXCLUSIVE BY NIC FLEMING The Ministry of Defence is conducting secret tests into the possible deadlyb radiation poisoning of Gulf War veterans. Scientists at defence research centre Porton Down are looking into the potential effects of depleted uranium on troops who fought in the 1991 conflict. The MoD has repeatedly insisted British soldiers were not exposed to harmful leels of radioactive substances in the Gulf, but last month former Royal Army Medical Corps theatre technician Ray Bristow became the first British Gulf War veteran to test positive for uranium depletion poisoning, raising the prospect that the thousands more have been exposed. Now the Express can reveal that 16 more British soldiers are awaiting the results of expensive urine tests being carried out at their own expense in Canada and 10 more have asked to give samples. Minutes of a Gulf Veterans Medical Assessment Programme meeting, headed by Professor Harry Lee, which took place earlier this month, seem to contradict MoD denials tht its scientists are investigating the effect of exposure to radioactive material. The document, which has been seen by The Express states: “Research was also on-going on depleted uranium and NAPS (nerve agent protection tablets), and Professor Lee mentioned he was going to visit Porton Down next week as part of these investigations.” Since coming home from the Gulf at least 300 veterans hae died and around 3,000 have suffered illnesses including breathing disorders, neurological problems, skin problems, memory loss depression and leukaemia. Allied forces in the Gulf War used large quantities of shells and missiles tipped with depleted uranium, especially in anti-tank weaponry. When DU tipped weapons hit a target, tiny radioactive particles are scattered in the surrounding area. Those breathing in large quantities of these particles are likely to suffer from poisonous deposits in the blood, kidney lungs or bones. Cells coming into contact with the uranium can be killed or altered and likely illnesses caused by exposure include kidney damage, psychiatric disorders and cancers. Andrew Honer , of the International All Vets Unit, demanded the Government come clean about any research being carried out into the depleted uranium. Mr Honer, 41, who served in the parachute regiment during the Gulf conflict, said: “Its role is supposed to be examining, advising and counselling thousands of active and former members of the armed forces with illnesses related to the war. “Given that the MoD has always denied that our forces were exposed to dangerous levels of radiation, why are they now doing research into the effects of exposure? It is an affront to those who have served their country to keep that secret.” Asked whether the MoD was carrying out any research into the effects of depleted uranium, an MoD spokesman said: “ The MoD continue to consider evidence on all suggested causes to Gulf veterans’ illnesses. These included depleted uranium and Professor Lee is involved in these deliberations. “However there is no formal research programme. The MoD remains open to any ew proposals.” Psychiatrist Dr Beatrice Bocter, who has been coordinating the testing of veterans worried about DU poisoning said: “Our soldiers were poisoned, their forces and populations were poisoned. The West must take responsibility and start cleaning up.” Jo Masters, a solicitor at Hodge Jones and Allen which is representing 300 Gulf veterans, said: “It’s the front line soldiers who are most likely to be affected. “ We have clients with kidney problems and psychiatric disorders.” OPINION: PAGE 10. Page 10 Gulf Veterans face new fear The saga of the so-called Gulf War Syndrome has been with us ever since the end of the conflict in 1991. Two years ago the then Defence Minister, Nicholas Soames, apologised to veterans for the use of dangerous pesticides but the authorities have consistently denied any other liability. Indeed they have refused to acknowledge even that the supposed symptoms of Gulf War Syndrome existed. As we reveal today, however, scientists at the Porton Down defence research centre are looking into the potential effects of deadly depleted uranium on Gulf War troops. Allied forces used large numbers of arms coated in the substance and there is evidence this may have exposed them to dangerous levels. The Government’s dismissive reaction to veterans’ claims has long been unsatisfactory. If the Porton Down research provides concrete proof, the next step will have to include proper compensation. ______________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free Email at http://www.hotmail.com DECLARATION & DISCLAIMER ========== CTRL is a discussion and informational exchange list. Proselyzting propagandic screeds are not allowed. Substance—not soapboxing! 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