asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will state on what date the United States Government were asked to agree to the proposed appointment of Professor T. A. Smiddy as Minister Plenipotentiary of the Irish Free State in Washington, and whether any reply has yet been received.
CEISTEANNA.—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - IRISH PLENIPOTENTIARY AT WASHINGTON.
We requested the British Government by telegram on the 3rd July to ascertain through diplomatic channels whether Professor Smiddy was acceptable to the U. S. Government in the capacity of Minister Plenipotentiary of the Irish Free State. I believe that there was some delay in forwarding this enquiry but we have now received word that Professor Smiddy is entirely acceptable to the American Government.
Arising out of that answer, could the Minister state when the Minister Plenipotentiary will begin to act in that capacity?
As soon as he receives his letters of credence and authority.
That is the part of the question that I am putting —I wanted to know when?
Without any further delay.