HC Deb 10 March 1983 vol 38 c500W
23. Mr. J. Enoch Powell

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will arrange for Northern Ireland residents on temporary absence from home to draw at local offices in Great Britain any supplementary benefit to which they may be entitled, in the same manner as if they were resident in Great Britain.

Mr. John Patten

The primary supplementary benefit legislation already reflects the principle of reciprocity between Great Britain and Northern Ireland; further subordinate legislation would be needed to effect changes to the existing schemes. Possible changes and their implications are being considered.