§ 15. Mr. Rifkindasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether a citizen of the Republic of Ireland is entitled to more favourable treatment from the Supplementary Benefits Commission than a citizen of another EEC country.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Health and Social Security (Mr. Eric Deakins)No, Sir. Both are treated alike.
§ Mr. RifkindWill the Minister indicate whether, in the payment of benefits to the citizens of the Irish Republic, cognisance is taken of the effect that discriminatory rates for British citizens and overseas citizens might have on movements over the Irish border?
§ Mr. DeakinsNo cognisance is taken of that. We take cognisance of the European Covention which we and our EEC partners have signed. It ensures that citizens of one country who are resident in or visit another country are entitled to social assistance on the same basis as the nationals of the country visited.