asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to an article in a publication (details supplied) which alleges that large numbers of Vietnamese are being forcibly transported to the Soviet Union to serve in slave labour camps in Siberia; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Yes. I have seen the article the Deputy refers to in his question. The article is similar to a number of other newspaper reports which have appeared since 1981 after the signature by Vietnam of labour co-operation agreements with the USSR. I have no firsthand information available to me to substantiate the allegations contained in the article. Without such information, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to make a statement.

Would the Minister be prepared to examine any further evidence which I can give to his Department with a view to making such a statement if so appropriate?

Certainly I will examine any evidence I can get in regard to the matter raised by the Deputy and consider what appropriate action should be taken after that.

Would the Minister agree to seek clarification on the reports from the Soviet Ambassador and through him from the Soviet Government?

Yes, I will do that and I will take whatever steps are necessary to get the reports clarified.