asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the Banks Standing Committee have refused to honour customers' cash orders for payment to the Savings Bank 25% Bonus Saving Scheme; and, if so, what steps have been or will be taken to impress on the Committee their obligation to encourage State saving schemes.

Because of the bank closure and its aftermath, it was not hitherto feasible to settle the procedures for the payment of savings instalments by Bank Standing Orders. The matter is now being discussed with the banks and I hope that agreement will be reached shortly.