The reduction of pay is forbidden by King's Regulations, and although the Minister for Defence in the Commonwealth of Australia authorised such reduction, it is only for such period as the troops are in Egypt.
It was agreed that cases of syphilis should be returned to Australia, as there is no chance in Egypt of treating them efficiently, and even if such treatment were available the men would not be fit for duty for from four to six months.
It was pointed out that at least 100 men left Australia with the First Division suffering from venereal disease.
The chief difficulty seemed to be what venereal cases would ultimately be of service to a fighting line, and to properly arrange for them during convalescence; in other words, when and how men considered unfit for further service should be returned to Australia. Officers were asked to recollect that the future of these soldiers was to be considered and the part they would play in civil life. In the American Navy unbounded shore leave had been given, and had some effect in checking the disease. In the British Navy it was an offence not to report "exposure."
The Soldiers' Clubs are fully described in the chapter on the Red Cross. They were rendered possible by an alliance between the Y.M.C.A. and the Australian Branch British Red Cross. To the Y.M.C.A., who managed them, the best thanks of Australia should be given, for Australians will never fully know what they owe to Mr. Jessop and his assistants. Unfortunately, the Australian Branch British Red Cross subsequently decided that help should be given only to sick and wounded. Although convalescents frequent these clubs, the view was taken—we think wrongly—that Red Cross funds could not be used for their support. We feel sure that when Australians fully understand the matter the decision will be reversed.