§ Mr. Newtonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the current rules for the payment of family allowances to United Kingdom families returning from a period of living abroad; and what will be the comparable rates for child benefit.
§ Mr. OrmeSubject to EEC arrangements and reciprocal agreements with other countries, families returning to this country after an absence abroad exceeding six months normally requalify for family allowances after they have been back here for six months. The child benefit rules are more flexible and will enable more families to requalify immediately following their return. I am sending the hon. Member copies of leaflets FAM 32 and CH5, which give further information and are available from any local social security office.