andMr. McQuillan asked the Taoiseach whether in view of his statement that Ireland is prepared to accept the defence implications of the Bonn Declaration he will state whether such commitments involve (a) the despatch of troops to areas at war, (b) the provision of bases for nuclear weapons, and (c) the provision of training facilities in this country for troops of those nations committed by the Bonn Declaration.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Defence Implications of Bonn Declaration.
4.
It is probable, as I have stated on a number of occasions, that the instrument designed to give effect to the Bonn Declaration will provide for consultation and co-operation in the field of foreign policy, including defence. That instrument is, however, still being negotiated. It is thus not possible to give more precise indications at this stage of its content. I may say, however, that there has been no suggestion in any press reports that the proposed instrument will involve any of the obligations suggested in the question.
May I ask the Taoiseach whether the recent very important change at the United Nations in our attitude to nuclear bases has anything to do with the commitments which we feel we have to enter into?
Surely that is a separate question.
There has been no change; therefore the Deputy's supplementary does not arise.
Would the Taoiseach say whether he has been provided with any indication of the lines of discussion at the Fouchet Committee?
I have no indication as to what is happening at the Committee except the Press reports which indicate that there has been no agreement.
And that Mr. Fouchet has now gone to Algeria.
Yes.
Is the Taoiseach aware that in the past two days it has been stated in the British House of Commons that the British Government are being kept in touch unofficially with the discussions taking place in the Fouchet Committee? Has he asked that he should be kept in touch in a similar way?
I am not.