HC Deb 31 March 1981 vol 2 cc72-3W
36. Mr. Sever

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he has had any consultations about the payment for National Health Service care for overseas students.

Dr. Vaughan

I have corresponded with various organisations making representations on behalf of overseas students and met a delegation from the United Kingdom Council for Overseas Student Affairs yesterday. As my right hon. Friend said during the debate on 12 March—[Vol. 1000, c. 1015]—we shall wish to consult all the appropriate interests.

44. Mr. Woolmer

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he proposes to make any special arrangements to cover increased charges for overseas students using the National Health Service during their stay.

Dr. Vaughan

It will be for overseas students to arrange insurance cover for medical treatment, but we shall be encouraging the insurance industry to make available suitable arrangements. As my right hon. Friend said during the debate on 12 March—[Vol. 1000, c. 1015]—we are prepared to consider transitional provisions for students already here. We shall be consulting appropriate interest on this, and I met the United Kingdom Council for Overseas Student Affairs yesterday.