HC Deb 29 June 1971 vol 820 cc78-9W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent on the United Kingdom's entry into the European Economic Community and the flow of labour from the Six to Great Britain workers coming from the Six will be able to claim full Social Security benefits in the United Kingdom.

Sir K. Joseph

There will be no difference as regards social security benefits from the position now.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what steps he is taking, or intends to take, to inform himself of the means and methods whereby he will be able to introduce social security benefits on a par with those paid in the European Economic Community.

Mr. Dean

I would refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's reply to him on 11th May.—[Vol. 817, c.74–5.]

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services to what extent he estimates that the regulations of the European Economic Community relating to sickness insurance will affect the time for which citizens of the United Kingdom have to await treatment under the National Health Service, in view of the fact that under the European Economic Community regulations workers from the Six entering Great Britain will be entitled to receive treatment.

Mr. Alison

I should not expect British membership of the European Economic Community to have any significant effect in this respect.