It is proposed to take Private Deputies' time to-day. I was asked by Deputy Cosgrave on Tuesday last whether I proposed to make a statement with regard to the recent negotiations with the British Government. I promised then that I hoped I would be able to make a short statement to-day. That will be possible about 2 o'clock.
Negotiations with British Government.
Will the answer to my question be given on the motion for the adjournment?
I take it that would be the best time.
May I take it then that the Dáil does not cease business at 2 o'clock or 2.30 o'clock but that if it is necessary to discuss the matter a proper opportunity will be afforded to the House?
I think when the statement is made that the Deputy will not be inclined to ask any question for the moment. I may be wrong about it, but there will be an opportunity for supplementary questions. I think when the statement is made I will be able to give the House such information that it will be agreed that there should not be further discussion on the matter at this stage.
May I say that that is a matter on which there may be two opinions and that in the absence of information in the statement I would not be disposed to commit myself to not having the matter further discussed.
I think we will be able to discuss this better when the actual moment comes. I am afraid that the circumstances are such that I shall be compelled to refuse to go into details, for the time being, of course.
That savours very much of autocracy.
Oh!
We have no information as regards the answer. Does the guillotine fall at 2 o'clock or 2.30, and does the Dáil adjourn at 2 or 2.30 o'clock without an opportunity being afforded the House to consider the statement made?
When the statement is made it will be clear to the House that an ample opportunity will be afforded to discuss this matter completely.