§ Mr. ColvinTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security when he last met the Australian Social Security Minister; and what discussions were held on the social security agreement between the United Kingdom and Australia. [92035]
§ Mr. TimmsI met Senator Jocelyn Newman, the Australian Minister for Family and Community Services, on 12 July. Senator Newman informed me that, because the United Kingdom Government do not uprate State Retirement Pensions paid in Australia, her Government intended to terminate the bilateral social security agreement between the United Kingdom and Australia. Senator Newman subsequently issued a public statement to this effect.
It would be unfortunate if there was an end to this long-standing agreement. UK and Australian pensioners would lose out, although no one already receiving a benefit under the agreement would be affected. The UK Government will continue to work closely with the Australian Government on issues of common concern.