andMr. Donnellan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to an article in a newspaper (details supplied) to the effect that some of the details concerning help for undeveloped regions of Scotland consequent on joining EEC have already been worked out; and, if in view of this, he will state the position regarding help for undeveloped regions in the Republic.

I have seen the newspaper article in question. I am not aware that details regarding Community assistance for undeveloped regions of Scotland have been worked out. With regard to the second part of the Deputies' question I would refer them to the Taoiseach's statement of 25th October on the Second Stage of the European Communities Bill, 1972.

Surely the Minister is aware that other countries, particularly Scotland, have worked out a regional policy and that we are behind in this regard, that we are not ready for entry to the EEC on the 1st January and that we have no proper plan worked out so far?

The Deputy can be assured that everything is being done in this direction and that no other plan has been adopted by the EEC with regard to any region within the Community at present. This is a matter in which we will be participating fully from the 1st January.

Can the Minister say what has been done in this respect to date? I admit that, so far as he is concerned, there is no problem. In fact, according to a statement made by the Minister last week, the Border will have disappeared within a few months?

The Deputy is being very provocative.

It is difficult to provoke the Minister. He is unable to give us the answer.