asked the Minister for External Affairs whether Press reports to the effect that he dined with His Majesty King George VI at Buckingham Palace during his recent visit to London are correct; and, if so, whether he will explain how it was in the public interest to do so having regard to the proposed British legislation on Partition and also the fact that British troops hold in subjection six counties of our country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - London Conference Reception.
The suggestions contained in the Deputy's question are not accurate. I did not have dinner at Buckingham Palace, nor was the British legislation in question available to me before I went there.
In accordance with usual practice at international conferences of Foreign Ministers an official reception was held by the Head of State of the host country, which in this case was Britain, for the Foreign Ministers attending the conference for the formation of the Council of Europe. In conformity with diplomatic practice and usage, I attended this function with the other Foreign Ministers attending this conference.
I appreciate fully the Deputy's concern regarding the proposed British legislation on Partition and the occupation of our six north-eastern counties by British forces.
The point raised by the Deputy in his question naturally occurred to me but I considered that, as we have diplomatic relations with Britain, I was bound to follow the normal international practice in such matters.