MINISTER FOR VETERANS' AFFAIRS

Dear Mr Pearce

Thank you for your letter of 21 April 2004 on behalf of Dr John Carroll, concerning three petitions presented on his behalf in the House of Representative on 26 August 2002 which have not yet received a response. I regret the delay in replying.

One of the petitions relates to mortality rates amongst certain members of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). As you may be aware, my Department is currently undertaking the Third Vietnam Veterans Mortality Study and Cancer Incidence in Vietnam Veterans study. This study is investigating mortality and cancer incidence among Naval personnel on a ship by ship basis and specifically the issue of any detectable effect of exposure to potentially contaminated potable water.

The research is being undertaken by the Department of Veterans' Affairs epidemiologist in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, and their work is oversighted by a Scientific Advisory Committee.

As you have suggested, a Consultative Forum has been formed. The membership for the Forum includes representatives from the Naval Association of Australia, the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, the Vietnam Veterans' Federation of Australia, the Returned & Services League of Australia, and the Australian Veterans and Defence Services Council.

I am advised that the Cancer Incidence Study will be completed by the end of the year and the Mortality Study shortly thereafter.

The other two petitions, searching for the wreck of the HMAS Sydney 2 and alleged bastardisation of junior sailors on HMAS Sydney 3, are the responsibility of the Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, the Hon Mal Brough MP. My Office will forward your correspondence to him for a response on these matters.

Thank you for bringing this matter to my attention.

Yours sincerely

Danna Vale MP

25 Jun 2004