asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement clarifying the position of Irish shareholders in British companies arising from pending changes in the British system of company taxation.

The Deputy's question is, I assume, concerned with the treatment of British dividend income for double taxation relief purposes.

Discussions at official level embracing all classes of income flowing between this country and the United Kingdom are continuing and I hope to be able to make a statement on the position in the near future.

Would the Minister say if it can be expected before 5th April?

It is possible but I cannot say definitely. I hope to be able to do it by then.