§ 52. Mr. SHINWELLasked the Minister of Health whether negotiations are proceeding between his Department and the Irish Free State with a view to protecting the interests of insured persons who, after paying contributions for a long period, become domiciled in Southern 1967 Ireland; and whether, in the event of no agreement being reached, he is prepared to make a refund to such contributors?
§ Sir K. WOODThe answer to both parts of the question is in the negative. So far as national health insurance is concerned the interests of the insured persons referred to are already protected by reciprocal arrangements, but no such arrangements can be made as regards contributory pensions so long as there is no similar scheme in force in the Irish Free State. In any event the financial basis of the health insurance and pensions schemes does not permit of any refund of contributions to persons who cease to be insured either on migration or other wise.