HC Deb 11 June 1953 vol 516 cc431-2
18. Major Anstruther-Gray

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether he can now announce details of the reciprocal social service and insurance arrangements arrived at between Australia and the United Kingdom.

Mr. J. Foster

As has already been announced, an agreement on social security between the Government of the United Kingdom and the Government of Australia was signed by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister of Australia on Monday.

The agreement covers retirement pensions and widows' benefits, unemployment and sickness benefits, and family allowances on the United Kingdom side, and the corresponding benefits of the Australian Social Services scheme. It is hoped that the agreement will come into operation early next year. The full text will be published as a White Paper very shortly.

Major Anstruther-Gray

In view of the great benefit which this scheme will confer upon both emigrants and immigrants, will my hon. and learned Friend take every step to see that his announcement receives full publicity?

Mr. Foster

Yes. Sir.