In regard to the structure of the Department, would the Minister indicate whether the structure to which he has reffered includes a premises in London which is apparently maintained for entertainment purpose? This is seperate and distinct from the embassy there. Would the Minister like to give us some information about this establishment?

There is no such establishment in existence there. However, all officers in the embassies abroad, no matter whether in London or any other city where they are posted, are expected to entertain people and they are given an allowance for that reason.

Is there a house in London which is occupied by an official of the Department, seperate from the embassy, which has a role of entertaining, certainly, politicians and press people of importance? Is there such a place in London?

No, not specifically for that reason. As I say, every officer in every embassy, in London and elsewhere, is expected to use his allowance to entertain people — in his own home preferably, but outside if necessary.

Is the Minister saying to me that there is not in London an official of the Department who resides centrally in London and who has a special allowance and a special remit to entertain prominent and important people?

Would the Deputy put down his question? That matter is not contained in my question.

Not in the sense that Deputy Haughey is implying. Every officer attached to embassies abroad, whether in London, New York, Washington, Ottawa or anywhere else, is given an allowance and expected to use that to entertain people who may be influential in helping this country. That is part of his duties.

So there is nothing exceptional in London in this regard.

No, there is nothing exceptional in London.