With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 6 and 7 together.
I am aware of the decision of the Honourable Society of King's Inns to offer portion of their Library for sale by public auction. The volumes to be put on sale come under the general classification of scientific, religious and geographical works. The society has given an undertaking that such books as may have reference to Ireland will not be included in the sale, nor is it the intention to sell any of the legal books contained in the Library.
That being so I am not satisfied that considerations of the national interest arise to an extent which would warrant the provision of the very considerable sums of money which would be involved in retaining through purchase the remaining books.