FRENCH HEALTHCARE SCARE OVER FOR CURRENT EXPATS

4.27.00pm GMT Fri 1st Feb 2008

A local Euro-MP has welcomed the French government's decision not to deny free healthcare to UK citizens who have retired early to France. It was estimated that some 7000 Britons could have been affected by the changes, which were first announced six months ago.

Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne was alerted to the French authorities' threat when a number of former constituents, who had been told of the withdrawal of service by post in September, got in touch to see if she could help.

A campaign was started in the European Parliament, with Liberal Democrats asking for the European Commission to take action as well as co-tabling a Written Declaration in the parliament to raise awareness of the issue.

Speaking today Liz, who campaigns on health issues in the European Parliament, said:

"I was stunned to hear of the French government's plans to withdraw healthcare provisions for certain foreign residents and so not surprised that some twenty former constituents contacted me for help. The retrospective withdrawal of services for those already living there would have gone against everything the EU is trying to achieve in terms of freedom of movement, residency and reciprocal agreements in healthcare.

"Although the new rules will still apply to people retiring early to France in the future, I am heartened that the French authorities have now heeded our calls and conceded defeat on withdrawing healthcare for existing residents. This will at least ensure that my former constituents will not have their vital healthcare services withdrawn and put an end to the recent period of uncertainty and financial worry."