Political awareness was paramount in the White household when Egal was a boy, and I recollect vividly his father Joe, forefinger outstretched, vigorously propounding his ideas. Egal became dedicated to the concept of global humanitarian justice, and believed the path to be via socialist precepts. His name underlined his parents' hope for his fulfillment in an egalitarian society.

At Melbourne High School he was a prominent member of the Debating Society, and he won one of the few free places in medicine at Melbourne University. He graduated, and later served in the AIF between 1941 and 1946 after completing his hospital residency. Later, in his own home, political debate was the order of the day, and it was almost inevitable, and sometimes disconcerting, to find oneself involved. It is generally agreed that his manner was mild and non-abrasive, though persuasive. His sincerity was unquestioned, and he was respected and liked by people from all sides of the political spectrum, and known to many affectionately as 'Iggy'.

He began in general practice in St Kilda, and soon had a large following. Aware of his special attributes, many patients made heavy demands on him, and working as his assistant for a time, I was aware of the load he carried. Despite this, he obtained his MRACP and MD Melbourne, and later disposed of his general practice and moved to Collins Street, in those days a common path to specialisation.

Egal applied for, but failed to obtain, a senior honorary post, and many believed that his political views stood in his way. In later years he modified his dedication to politics, and found time to become a keen golfer. Despite lifelong good health and being a non-smoker, he developed a relentless cough and progressive dyspnoea resulting in his death at the early age of fifty-five years.