asked the Taoiseach whether he proposes to seek a meeting with the British Prime Minister to discuss matters of common concern.
2.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Consultation with British Prime Minister.
1.
asked the Taoiseach if he has any plans to meet the British Prime Minister, Mr. Heath, to consult and inform him of dangers which may arise from marches arranged in the Six Counties on 12th July.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 and 2 together.
I am looking forward to meeting the new British Prime Minister in due course. It would be normal, however, in the first instance, for the Minister for External Affairs to meet and discuss matters of common interest with the new Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and the new British Minister in charge of Common Market affairs.
Can the Taoiseach say if the date has been suggested for such a meeting?
Not yet; we are in consultation.
Does the Taoiseach visualise a meeting at an early date between himself and Mr. Heath following such meeting of the Ministers?
I would look forward to meeting the British Prime Minister as early as can be arranged.
Can the Taoiseach state if it is his intention or the intention of the Minister for External Affairs to warn the British Prime Minister of the grave dangers which may arise from marches on 12th July, having regard to the fact that the Minister for External Affairs warned Mr. Wilson of the danger prior to the outbreak in Derry?
We take every opportunity to make our views known. However, I have no doubt that the new British Government will have their own views on the situation.
Will the Taoiseach agree that it will be no harm to let the British Government know of our Government's views and of the apprehension that the Taoiseach, as head of the Government, must have in case there is a repetition of last year's troubles?
Has the Taoiseach any evidence of any change in the approach of the British Government regarding various features of the Anglo-Irish Free Trade Area Agreement?
No; not so far.
That is a separate question.