andMr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the fact that quantities of Irish butter are being sold directly to South Africa, he will make a statement regarding the Government's attitude to trading links between Irish companies, including semi-State bodies and related agencies, and the racist regime of South Africa.
Written Answers. - Trade with South Africa.
86.
On the question of trading links with South Africa, it is the policy of the Government, in keeping with their strong opposition to the apartheid system, not to promote trade or other commercial relations with that country. I can confirm that State-sponsored bodies are aware of and adhere to this policy.
As regards possible exports of butter to South Africa, I understand that no licences for the export of butter to that country have been issued since 1980 by the Department of Agriculture under the Milk and Milk Products (Restriction of Exports) Order 1964. However, I also understand that some butter exported by at least one private Irish undertaking to member states of the European Communities has been re-exported to South Africa. There is of course no legal barrier to such trade, nor would it be covered by the Government's policy on State-sponsored bodies which I have outlined.