asked the Taoiseach what the Government's reactions are to the Franco-German free trade proposals announced recently; and how such proposals may affect Ireland's application for membership of the EEC.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Franco-German Trade Proposals.
1.
I would refer the Deputy to what I said about these proposals in my reply to questions on the 20th instant. It will be necessary to await further elaboration of the proposals and the attitude to them of the other Governments concerned before expressing a view on them.
Is the Taoiseach aware that the British Foreign Secretary said he received a memorandum from Italy over the weekend and indicated there is a possibility of a meeting in the near future between the interested countries? Will this country be represented at such talks?
If the situation emerges that all interested countries would be willing to go along, then we would, too. In the meantime, the Italian proposals are likely to be examined by the Council of the Six.
Did the Taoiseach receive the Italian proposals officially?
Yes, through the Italian Ambassador.
Can the Taoiseach say if the Minister for External Affairs will attend the meeting of the Council of Ministers? We see him so seldom these days.
That will be a matter for my decision at the appropriate time.
Your view would be that it is important?