HC Deb 20 November 1972 vol 846 cc308-9W
Mr. John Fraser

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what reciprocal arrangements have been made with European Economic Community countries to extend to United Kingdom citizens in those countries the right to receive noncontributory social security benefits similar to those benefits payable to European Economic Community nationals in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Dean

The European Economic Community Social Security Regulations, which will apply to member States of the enlarged Community from 1st April, 1973, make reciprocal arrangements in respect of social insurance and industrial injuries benefit, medical treatment and family allowances. The regulations do not, however, apply to social assistance benefits. Entitlement to such benefits, including supplementary benefit in the United Kingdom, is therefore governed by the internal legislation of each country.