asked the Taoiseach (a) the total value of exports from the Republic to countries now comprising the EEC and the percentage represented by this figure of total exports and (b) the total value of imports from the same countries to the Republic and the percentage represented by such figure of total imports.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trade with EEC.
7.
Total exports to EEC countries in 1969 were valued at £41.3 million, i.e. 11.1 per cent of total Irish exports. Total imports from EEC countries in 1969 were valued at £91.4 millions, i.e. 15.5 per cent of total imports.
How does it so happen, year after year, that this adverse trade balance exists with the EEC countries? It has worsened this year. We sold them £41 million worth of goods and we have bought more than £90 million worth from them. How is it that we are incapable of formulating a selling policy that will ensure that we trade on a par? Surely the adverse balance is harmful to our economy?
Deputy Murphy will appreciate that these questions are purely statistical. If he requires further information along those lines he should put down a question.
I am completely in order——
Deputies
Chair. Chair.
I am asking the Parliamentary Secretary for his comments.
It does not arise.
It does arise.
With our entry into the EEC, if the Labour Party will support it, things will improve.
It is as a result of Fianna Fáil's mismanagement and because they are incapable of looking after the affairs of this country.
We will stay out with Britain—what?
I am grateful to the Ceann Comhairle for his judgment on this issue. I think he should look up procedure.