§ 57. Mr. Sorensenasked the Under-Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what consultations he has had, or proposes to have, with the Governments of Commonwealth countries concerning reciprocal arrangements by which emigrants from this country can continue to receive approximately similar medical and pensions services to those they enjoyed in this country; and whether the question of adequate accommodation for emigrants and their families has received further consideration by Her Majesty's Government in collaboration with Commonwealth governments.
§ Mr. Alport:Agreements were made with Australia in 1953 and New Zealand in 1955 providing for reciprocal arrangements in social security benefits including retirement, age, widows and invalid pensions or benefits. The agreements do not cover medical services. In Australia the pensioner medical service is open to immigrants when they qualify for a pension. In New Zealand free medical treatment is extended to immigrants after a residence of twelve months.
94WReciprocal agreements have not yet been made with any other Commonwealth country. The possibility of an arrangement with Canada has been considered but so far no agreement has been concluded.
Accommodation for assisted migrants and their families is the responsibility of the Government of the receiving country. The Governments concerned take steps to warn intending migrants of the housing conditions they are likely to find.