§ 27. Major HUNTasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the fact that Sapper Stephen Kelly, an Australian soldier, was mentioned in dispatches for finding water in Gallipoli without which thousands of men must have died or left their positions, he can say why this man cannot get employment in the Army?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONI have ascertained from the headquarters of the Australian Imperial Force that Sapper Kelly was found to be permanently unfit for any Army service by a board of consultants on 24th May owing to a disability which is not due to service, and that he was discharged accordingly. I understand that there is no record of any application for re-enlistment.
§ Major HUNTAs this man was the only man who could find water in Gallipoli, could lie not be employed by the Government in Palestine, where they are badly off for water, as he is known to be the best water-finder in Australia?
§ Mr. MACPHERSONThe information in the answer to this question does not come from the War Office. I had to apply to the Australian Imperial Forces for it. I will convey there my hon. Friend's suggestion.