HC Deb 22 November 1955 vol 546 cc1249-50
24. Mr. George Craddock

asked the Secretary of State for War the number of soldiers below the age of 25 years serving with the Army in Western Germany who have received hospital treatment for varicose veins during the twelve months ended 8th October, 1955.

Mr. Head

One hundred and sixty-five for the year ending last June, the latest period for which figures are available.

Mr. Craddock

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that this is a large number of young men? I discovered in hospital in Germany many of these young men in the same ward who were receiving operative treatment for varicose veins, and some were in their teens? Is this associated with the rigorous military training they are getting?

Mr. Head

I do not think that the percentage is a big one. If I gave the hon. Gentleman the percentage I should give him the strength of our forces in Germany. It is not a big percentage.

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