Gulf War veterans yesterday said they were disappointed that the Government had again not answered their questions over the mystery illnesses affecting them.

The group had threatened to walk out of the meeting with Armed Forces Minister John Reid, but despite staying said they felt he had failed to address the issue.

While Dr Reid described the meeting at the Ministry of Defence as constructive, members of the National Gulf Veterans and Families Association said they remained unhappy. The meeting also included representatives from the Royal British Legion and the Gulf Veterans' Association. The groups are campaigning for recognition of the illnesses which have affected thousands in the services who served in the 1991 Gulf War. They also want the publication of a previous study into their

illnesses.

However Shaun Rusling, of the NGVFA, said they were forced to accept Dr Reid's reasons for not publishing that report, which looked at the first 500 veterans reporting symptoms. Instead, the Minister said he hoped a report detailing the diagnosis of 1000 veterans would soon be released.

Mr Rusling said: ''We're not happy with what the Minister has said. He was still unable to answer the questions we asked a year ago.

''He couldn't answer why NHS hospitals and doctors are diagnosing and treating veterans with Gulf War syndrome while the MoD fails to do so. And he was unable to explain why two veterans a month are committing suicide because of the lack of action.''

After the two-hour meeting, Dr Reid said he was pleased the veterans had chosen to stay and listen to what he had to say.

''I understand there has been some plans to walk out and I am glad to say we were able to discuss these issues.

''I understand the frustrations of the veterans, who are in a difficult position. They want answers which so far medical science

hasn't provided,'' he said.