§ 14. Mr. Michael Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will review the present arrangements for reciprocal health services within the European Economic Community.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThe provision of health care to nationals of European Community countries moving within the Community is governed by the Community regulation on social security for migrant workers. Member States cannot revise the regulations unilaterally; the agreement of all countries is needed. Representatives of the member States meet regularly as a group to discuss the operation of the regulations and they have recently agreed arrangements to extend cover to eligible self-employed and non-employed persons, as previously decided in principle.
§ Mr. MorrisAs EEC nationals receive free treatment in Britain, why is a passport insufficient evidence to enable citizens of the United Kingdom to receive medical treatment on the Continent?
§ Mr. FinsbergMy hon. Friend knows that regulations have been in force since the scheme started and since Britain joined the Community. I should be delighted to see whether, as my hon. Friend suggests, there is a simpler way of doing things.
§ Mr. NelsonIs my hon. Friend satisfied that the public are sufficiently aware that they need to take the appropriate form, signed by their doctor and with their national health number, when visiting other West European countries if they wish to obtain the benefit of discounted or free health services? What efforts is the Department making, before the main holiday season, to ensure that the public are made aware of those requirements?
§ Mr. FinsbergFrom time to time we ensure that organisations are aware of the problem. Judging from the cases that I have had to deal with, there is no particular problem. However, I shall reconsider the matter to see whether anything extra needs to be done.