asked the Minister for External Affairs whether the Dáil will be given an early opportunity of discussing Government policy in relation to the international trade discussions at present taking place in London, which discussions have for their object the proposed elimination of commonwealth trade preferences in exchange for reciprocal trade concessions to the States of the Commonwealth by the United States of America and other countries; and whether, in view of the possible adverse effect which decisions reached in these discussions and negotiations may have upon our producers, he will make an early statement to the Dáil on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - International Trade Discussions.
An opportunity for discussing this matter will arise on the Vote for Industry and Commerce which, I understand, the Minister is anxious to take as early as possible in the new financial year. If there is a general desire among Deputies for an earlier discussion, I will see whether the necessary time can be made available.
Will the Taoiseach say whether any White Paper will be issued on the matter before we reach the Estimate or whether the Minister for Industry and Commerce has information to convey which he will not convey until he makes a statement on his Estimate?
I think the discussions are going on. When the time will be ripe for a White Paper we will know what will have happened meanwhile.
I understand a Paper of the draft proposals made by the United States as a White Paper has been issued. Will the Minister for Industry and Commerce see that that White Paper is circulated to all Deputies in the meantime?
I will look into that to see whether it is desirable or whether it could be done or not.
My position is that we have read accounts in the Press of that White Paper and it was not until we read of the issue of that White Paper that we knew of its existence and then we had to go and look for it.
Yes. I will look into that matter.
asked the Minister for External Affairs whether a delegation representing the Government of this State is at present in London to participate in the discussions, which began on the 10th March, 1947, between Commonwealth Government representatives, in preparation for the international trade discussions and negotiations which are due to begin in Geneva on 10th April.
The answer to the question is in the affirmative.