asked the Minister for Finance whether the British Chancellor has been in contact with him during the present period of anxiety as to the future of the British £1; and whether he has received any communication from the British Government in connection with the present situation of the British £1.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - British Pound.
12.
I was informed by the Chancellor of the Exchequer of the closing on 15th March, at the request of the United States authorities, of the London markets in gold and foreign currencies and of the meeting in Washington on 16th and 17th March of the governors of the central banks of the countries participating in the gold pool to discuss the international monetary situation. I also received from the Chancellor an appraisal of the outcome of that meeting.
Has the Minister any view on the possibility of gold itself on the free market and the price going away from the official price?
It is coming down to 35 dollars now, and thanks be to God.
Would the Minister——
(Interruptions.)
Question No. 13.
13.
asked the Minister for Finance whether any financial measures are being taken to protect Irish interests in the event of a further British devaluation.
As I announced on 15th March developments in the international monetary situation are being carefully watched. All desirable and possible financial measures to protect Irish interests are being taken.
Can the Minister assure the House that, in his opinion, he can ensure the protection of essential Irish interests?
I do not think there is any need for me to comment on the policy of and measures taken by the British Government in the present situation.
Under the Labour Government.
Surely it is a matter for the Labour Government anyway.
There are a lot of Deputy Carty's followers getting jobs under it.
14.
asked the Minister for Finance whether any extra support has been given by the Irish commercial banks in the present period of strain for the British pound.
The Irish commercial banks have no function in regard to the provision of support for the pound sterling.