asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has taken action in relation to the recent actions of the South African Government against critics of apartheid; and if he has any further proposals to oppose apartheid doctrines and practices.

Belgium acting on behalf of the nine countries of the European Community made a démarche last week to South Africa protesting at the recent bannings of organisations and individuals in South Africa. Ireland was fully associated with this protest. Furthermore, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs speaking at the opening of a seminar organised by the Irish anti-apartheid movement on the churches, racialism and South Africa voiced the Government's dismay at the most recent efforts to stifle legitimate protest in South Africa.

Obviously there is little that Ireland acting alone can do to bring pressure to bear on the South African regime to secure change in its apartheid policy. We do, however, support the concept of concerted action through the international forum of the United Nations Organisation.

As the Deputy is no doubt aware the Government have come out in support of a UN Security Council decision in favour of a mandatory arms embargo against South Africa and we are hopeful that such a decision will shortly be made.

Amongst the nine, discussions are continuing with the aim of using the economic weight of the Community to secure change in South Africa. The nine have already agreed on a code of conduct for companies of the nine with subsidiaries, branches or representation in South Africa. The recent actions of the South African Government, will no doubt add a new momentum and urgency to the present discussions.