HC Deb 05 June 1986 vol 98 c617W
Mr. Marlow

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services under what conditions foreign nationals are entitled to supplementary benefit or unemployment benefit.

Mr. Major

Foreign nationals living in Great Britain who have paid the relevant contributions are entitled to unemployment benefit subject to the normal rules. Some foreign nationals are helped to qualify under the European social security regulations and the reciprocal arrangements on social security with certain other countries. Supplementary benefit has no residence, nationality or contribution test and the entitlement of foreign nationals is dependent upon their immigration status.