Explanatory note

This Order makes provision for the modification of the Social Security Contributions and Benefits Act 1992 and the Social Security Administration Act 1992 so as to give effect to the Agreement set out in the Schedule to the Order.

This Agreement amends the Convention on Social Security between the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of the Republic of Finland signed on 12th December 1978 as amended by Protocols signed on 21st March 1980 and 24th January 1983.

The Agreement provides that as from the date on which the Treaty establishing the European Economic Area enters into force, the provisions of the Convention and accompanying Health Protocol shall cease to apply to persons to whom Regulation (EEC) No1408/71 and Regulation (EEC) No574/72 (“the EEC Regulations”) apply; rights in course of acquisition under the Convention immediately before the Treaty enters into force are to be determined in accordance with the provisions of the EEC Regulations. The Convention continues to apply to other persons who are insured under the social security schemes of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and to persons who are insured under the social security scheme of the Isle of Man.

The Agreement provides for benefits already awarded and claims in course of determination to be governed by the Convention.