It is proposed to take Nos. 3 and 4, in 4 Vote No. 3. Questions at 3 p.m. to finish.
Order of Business.
Arising out of the Order of Business, can the Taoiseach indicate the Government's attitude to the Interim Report of the Committee of Public Accounts?
I received that Interim Report late last evening. I only had time to read it hurriedly and contact, for a brief moment, the Attorney General. I was not able to give him the Interim Report at that time but I conveyed it to a member of his staff. It seems to me that the apprehension which the Committee have about privilege is not a real one having regard to the advice of the Attorney General and the advice of the Deputy's counsel. There was, however, another suggestion in the report about the power of the Committee to require witnesses to attend and produce documents. These two matters are now being considered by the Attorney General and I have not yet received his report, but I hope to receive it by Question Time and then I can indicate to the House what his attitude is.
If legislation is contemplated will it be introduced this session or next?
It would be rather complicated legislation and I do not know whether it could be introduced this session. Again, I am awaiting the report from the Attorney General's office.
Will the Taoiseach indicate whether it is his intention to withdraw the Prices and Incomes Bill today?
I will not.
The Taoiseach is not withdrawing it?
I am not indicating to the House.
Will the Taoiseach be indicating his intention in this matter before the end of the session tomorrow?
I shall have to consider the situation. I cannot give any further information at the moment.
This does not arise on the order of business.
(Interruptions.)
I can take my own counsel.