§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will discuss with the Sri Lanka Government a change in the regulations governing United Kingdom State pensions schemes to enable Sri Lanka nationals who have been employed in the United Kingdom for a number of years, but who wish to return to Sri Lanka on a permanent basis, to obtain a reduced pension, or the refund of their contributions, in cases in which they have reached or passed the Sri Lanka pensionable age.
§ Mr. OrmeAlthough retirement pensions awarded under the social security legislation in Great Britain may be paid abroad, the minimum ages for payment are those operative in Great Britain. The payment of reduced rate pensions at an earlier age could not be limited to the nationals of one country and the Government have no plans to introduce such a provision for contributors generally. Properly paid contributions are not refundable.