HC Deb 28 April 1952 vol 499 cc1002-3
19. Sir Ian Fraser

asked the Minister of National Insurance what negotiations have taken place with foreign Commonwealth and Colonial Governments in the matter of old age pensions, free or assisted medical services, and similar benefits.

Mr. Peake

A reciprocal agreement covering contributory old age pensions and certain other cash benefits has been concluded with France, and a similar agreement with Italy is awaiting ratification. Agreements on unemployment, sickness and maternity benefits have been reached with the Irish Republic, and an agreement on family allowances with New Zealand. A multilateral agreement providing for medical care for persons without sufficient resources has been concluded between the Brussels Treaty countries and another is being negotiated in the Council of Europe. Negotiations for bilateral agreements on various social security benefits are taking place with the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and the Federal Republic of Germany, and on old age pensions with Australia and New Zealand.

Sir I. Fraser

Can my right hon. Friend say if there is any country which a Briton may visit for a long or a short time where he will get free medical service?

Mr. Peake

I cannot answer that question.

Mr. Harold Davies

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that he can inform his hon. Friend that there is at least one country where a Briton can get free medical attention, and that is the U.S.S.R.?

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